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STKTCK iim AM> WOtlC.N IIY 




THY. >rK. JWiHKUS (VK 






.^T a^^Tai^rllv: 



1771 



n.tUi.,J ,'fncJ /// ih, I'.i/.- t-r.-n/,- i.ttnfMt 






IIIUKF ACCOUNT 



T II K S (; I K T Y 



FinENDIiY SONS OF ST. rATllICK; 



IHOGKAPHICAL NOTICES OF SOMi: OF THE MFMI3EKS, 



EXTRACTS FROM THE ^^NlTEs. 



A So( u'l.\ iIi-tmL'iii-licil fnr llif In in .idliiri in f (.fits ni< tnl.«Ts IuiIk' L'l.iri.iiis 
cause ill wliii li wi- ar. riiilmrk' il. — /'/ffrtrr /"/nm i!'<\. II HihuiL'ton'^ 
J.cttirlo Ihc l'rf.<iilri,l vfihc Suiiciij—\\^>\, p. 17. 



Dl)il,it)clpl)fn: 

rnr.r Ai!i:i) ami im |![,i.-iii:i) 

BY ORDER OF TIIF IIUJERMAN SOCIETY, 

IS I I. 



lb 



5? 



1.4 



UZao I 



llntevcTi according to Act of Congress, in llie year 1844, by 

S AMUKL HOOD, 

in the Clerk's Office of the District Court of the Eastern District 

of Pennsylvania. 



Wm. S. Youno, I'rlnte.. 



CONTKiNTS. 



Report and Dedication, - - - - 5 

liCttor from IVaiicis Mopkinson, Esq., . - - (> 

Reply, -...-.. 7 
Proceedings of Hibernian Society, June 17, 1HI,3, - 7 

Introductory, - - - - - - 

Section I. Of the general character of the cnriigrants, 
who came from Ireland to Pennsylvania 
before the Revolution, and that of the 
members of the Friendly Sons of St. 
Patrick, - . - -11 

Section II. Of the objects and rules of the Society, 21 
Section III. Brief account of the Society and the ori- 
ginal members, - . - 25 
Section IV. Sketches of the honorary members, - 52 
Section V. Sketches of other members, - - 59 
Section VI. The connexion of the Society of the 
Friendly Sons of St. Patrick, with the 
Hibernian Society, and the origin of the 
latter, - - - - 

Rules of the Society, .... 

Extracts from the Minutes, 

Alphabetical list of members, and time of election, 



TO THE 



MEMBERS OF "THE IIIIJERNIAN SOCIETY 



RELIEF OF EMIGRANTS FROM IRELAND. 



The Committee appointed at the meeting of tlic 
1 7th of June, IS 13, "to prepare and publish extracts 
from tlie rules, minutes, &c., of "The Society of the 
Friendly Sons of St. Patrick,'* with an account " of 
the Society and its INIcmbcrs,'' beg to present to you 
the result of tlieir labours. They also ask leave to 
dedicate the same to " The Hibernian Societyy* the 
immediate successor and lineal descendant of the 
glorious Society of the Friendly Sons of St. Patrick. 
Though they feel how imperfectly they have per- 
formed their agreeable task, they can assure you 
they have availed themselves of every means within 
their power, to render the account of the Society 
and its Members as complete as possible. They 
cannot omit to acknowledge their great obligations 
to the gentlemen who have so kindly aided them 
in their researches, particularly to Dr. James Mease^ 
2 



( fi ) 

\vho furnishctl them with much vaUiablc information 
relative to the personal liislory of the members. 
Vvvy respectfully, 

SAMri-.L Hood, 
(Jloiuje Campkell, 
joseimi jonks. 
Philadelphia, March 17lh, Vf^U. 

riiiladolphia, MaylHh, J84'J. 

Dear Sir, — 

Among a number of old j)apers hantled to me by 
tiic late Mr. Daviil Caldwell, 1 find a minute book 
of the Society of the Friendly Sons of St. Patrick, 
commencing in September, 1771, and continued till 
March, 17<)(). 

It contains the rules of the Society, with the auto- 
graphs of many worthy and distinguished citizens 
whose memory is at this day most dearly cherished 
by the Sons of Ireland, and among tiiem, that of 
General Washington, who was, on the 18th December, 
1781, unnnimotisbj adoplcd a member of the Society. 

It occurred to me that this book would be accep- 
table to the Hibernian Society, many of whose mem- 
bers are found on the roll of the old society. I have 
consulted Mrs. Caldwell, wlio cheerfully con.sents to 
this disposition of it. 

He good enough to communicate this note to your 

issociates of the Hibernian Society, and say that the 

book which is at my olTice, will be delivered to such 

;)ersons as they may authorize to receive it. 

Very truly yours, 

FR.\NCIS IlorKlNSON. 
SAMUEL HOOD, Esq. 



( 7 ) 
Walnut and Sixth Street, May 9lli, ]Hi?,. 

FRANCIS HOrKINSOiN, Ean. 
Dear Sir, — 

I huvu received your kind favour of tliis morninp;, 
and liavc seen Mr. Tjigcrt, tlic President of the Hi- 
bernian Society, Mr. Jones, the Treasurer, an d 
several of the members on the subject of your letter. 
They all concur with mc in saying that tlie Hiber- 
nian Society will consider the ofl'er made by you on 
belialf of Mrs. David Caldwell, to present to them the 
minute book of the Friendly Sons of St. Patrick, as 
especially acceptable. 'I'hey authorize me to receive 
it from you on behalf of the Society. I will avail 
myself of their next meeting, which will be on the 
17th of June, to present to the Society this valuable 
and interesting donation, when I doubt not the So- 
ciety will take occasion to tender their acknowledg- 
ments in a suitable manner, both to you and to Mrs. 
Caldwell. 

I remain. Dear Sir, very truly, 

Your friend and humble Servant, 

SAMI EL HOOD. 

"Ata meeting of the Hibernian Society on the 17th 
of June, IS 1.3, Mr. Hood having read the foregoing 
correspondence between Mr. Hoj>kinson and him- 
self, and presented the minutes, &c., of the Society 
of the Friendly Sons of St. Patrick, it was resolved 
that the thanks of the Hibernian Society be tendered 
to Mrs. David Caldwell and Francis Ilopkinson, Esq., 
for the valuable gift, and the courteous manner in 
which it was presented. 



( 8 ) 

"The Book was ordered to be elegantly hound and 
carefully preserved in the archives of the Society, 
and a coinmitlcc, consisting of Messrs. Samuel Hood, 
George Campbell, and Joseph Jones, was appointed 
to prepare and publisli an account of the Society of 
tiie Friendly Sons of St. Patrick, and its members, 
with the Kules and Regulations, and such extracts 
as they might select from its Minutes." 



( '^ 



INTRODUCTORY. 

TifE IIil)crnianS()cicty having been presented with 
the I{iilcs and minutes of the Society of the Friendly 
Sons of St. Patrick, ordcretl the most interesting 
parts to be published. Desirous also of perpetuating, 
as far as practicable, the memory of tlic many excel- 
lent men and ardent patriots who belonged to it, a 
committee was appointed to collect reminiscences of 
the Society and its members, and publish them, with 
the extracts from the Minutes. They were the more 
especially induced to this, because the Society of the 
Friendly Sons of St. Patrick was tlic parent from 
which their own Society sprang, and it appeared to 
be a duty required of them to lose no time in prose- 
cuting their scheme, since the last of its members had 
already descended to the grave, and those who could 
give any authentic account of them must in the course 
of nature soon follow. 

It was hoped, too, that a brief history of tliis So- 
ciety, and such sketches of its members as could 
be gathered even at this late day, might tend to show, 
in some degree, what part Irishmen enacted in the 
great drama of the Revolution. — Not that their ser- 
vices are forgotten or unacknowledged, but l)ecause 
there seemed to be little of a permanent character 
among the annals of the revolution, doing full justice 
to their merits, or showing, what is undeniable, that 
they were behind no other men in ardour, and effi- 
ciency in the cause of liberty, or in courage, devotion, 
2* 



( 10 ) 

and sacrifices for their luiopted country, "in -the 
times that tried men's souls/ 

It is not imagined that the brief and rapid sketches 
which this desij!;n necessarily contemj)hites, can supply 
all that is wanting in this res])ect. It is hoped, how- 
ever, that these hasty memoranda snatched from the 
fast rising tide of oblivion, may contribute something 
to fill up tliis hiatus in the reminiscences of the Ame- 
rican Revolution. 

The time during which the Society of the Friendly 
Sons of St. Patrick existed, from 1771 to 17f)S,— /Ae 
men of whom it was composed, some of the most ac- 
tive and influential patriots of the country, including 
John Dickitison, Kobcrt Morris, Thomas Filzsimons, 
Generals Washington, Wayne, Irvine, 15utler,Thomp- 
son. Hand, Cadwaladcr, JNloylan, Knox, and Stewart. 
Commodore IJarry, and numerous others, distin- 
guished in the Army, Navy, Cabinet ami Congress, — 
the place in whicii the Society was formed and met, 
Philadelpliia, then tlie focus of every political anddi- 
jdomatic movement, the Capitol of the nation, where 
Independence was declared, national conventions and 
Congress met, the seat of the confederated Federal 
and State Governments, the residence of the Fo- 
reign Ambassadors and ministers, and occasionally 
the theatre of war — all these circumstances of time, 
persons and place combine to give additional interest, if 
not importance to its memoirs. The devotion of its 
members to the cause of liberty rests not on the high 
testimonials of Washington alone, but on the history 
of the society itself, and of its individual members; 
to give an outline of which is the principal object 
of the following pages. 



// 



BRIEF AC (.'Oil NT 



SOCIETY OF TIIK FRIENDLY SONS 



ST. PATH ICK, Slc. 



SE("noN I. 

OF THE (.F.NKRAI, CIIARACTKR OF TFIF. EMIGRANTS WHO CAME 
FROM IKKI.AM) TO I'KNNSVI.V A NI A RKKOKE THE RK VOI.L'TIOIf, 
AND TflAT OK THE. MEMBERS OF THK KRIKNDLY SONS OF ST. 

rAxnicK. 

In speaking of the early history of the province 
of Pennsylvania liistorians dwell much on the settle- 
ments of the Swedes under the tlirection of Oustavus 
Adolpluis, Christina, and the Chancellor Oxcnsteirn, 
on the j)rctensions and inroads of the Dutch — but 
especially on the paramount influence exercised in 
the government by the Society of Friends after Wil- 
liam Pcnn became proprietor. 

It is natural that we should be curious to know the 
history of these early settlements, and it is instructive 
and amusing lo trace the causes of the frequent dis- 
putes and heart-burnings between the assembly and 
the governors, but if the true use of the history 
of the past be to throw light on the present, neither 
the early Swedish, Dutch, nor English settlements in 
Pennsylvania, nor the political movements of the 



(12) 

provincial government, arc so intiniatcly connect- 
ed willi licr real history, ami tiuc prosjxM-ity, as 
the ininicnsc inllux aiul scttleniLMit of Irish emi- 
grants. Wliilst the proprietary aiul popuhir parties 
were carrying on a licrce war of words and resolu- 
tions, in the proviiu'o; when JJoyd scolded and pro- 
tested, and Logan and Franklin shed torrents of ink, 
weak men snpjwscd that the very existence of the 
province depended on the success of some of the 
belligerent parties. 

In the mean time, the true ft)undations of the suh- 
sequent prosperity of I^ennsylvania were laid without 
noise or ostentation, by successive hands of hrave, in- 
dustrious, and intelligent Irishmen, wliilst, in the 
inland counties, her real iiistory \v;js :dl the time 
writing; not, it is true, with the pen, nor on paper, but 
by the spade, the axe, and the plough, in characters 
that remain engraven on her soil to the present day. 
Thus, from Dec. 17^28 to Dec. 172 J), the i)roportion 
of the various classes of emigrants who landed in the 
province, was as follows: 

English and Welsh, - - 207 

Scotch, 13 

Palatines, (Germans,) - - 243 

Irish, 5055* 

The Irish emigrants to the province were thus 
nearly ten to one of all other emigrants taken to- 
gether, and tliat proportion was douhlle.ss sustained 
down to the revolution. These, the true founders of 
Pennsylvania, scattered their settlements thiekly over 
the interior, until then covered with the woods which 

* Gord. Hist. 207-8, &c. 



( 13) 

gave name to the province. Tlic constant recurrence 
of Irish names on th(; Stale map of Pennsylvania, 
ahuiKhinlly proves the localities whence the first set- 
tlers came. Thus tjje Derrys, Donej^als, Tyrones, 
Strahaiies,Uaphoes, HelfastSjDuhlins, ('oleraines, &.C., 
were a;z;ain revived amonj; l*enn's Woods, where 
Irish names became almost as numerous as on the 
map of Ireland. 'JMie greater part of these settlers 
were from tlu; north of Ireland, as the names of the 
settlements indicate, and p;cnerally of the Presbyte- 
rian relij^ion." 'Djo neij^libouring colony of Mary- 
land held out inducements in those times to the Ca- 
tholic Irish, which led much greater numbers of them 
to that colony than to Pennsylvania. 

If, as it is said, the stern spirit of Puritanism sowed 
the seeds of freeilom in New England, and the ge- 
nius of l^piscopacy gave an aristocratic linctiito to 
the Southern colonics, if the Catholic colony of 
Maryland has a just claim to setting the first glorious 
exami)le of religious liberty and toleration; the potent 
leaven of Presbylerianism, whose form of church go- 
vernment is so eminently republican, leavened with 
republicanism the great mass of the people of Penn- 
sylvania.! It was remarked (by Burke, or IJarre 
perhaps,) that the Presbyterian emigrants from the 
north of Ireland were among the most active and 
instrumental in exciting, urging on, and accomplish- 
ing the revolutionary movement in America. The 

* Gord. 570-1. 

t For ilic inllucncc of Prcf-bytorianisin in j^ivinj^ a repub- 
lican funn to the various ^'ovcrnriicuts of the States, see 
Smyth's Ecclesiastical Ucpublicanism. 



( 11 ) 

greater part, iiulocd, of the Irish eniii»;raiits of every 
sect, hroui;ht witli them an ahuiulant slock of ilissatis- 
factioii. Tlie conij)arative fri-ecloru of the colonies, 
wliilst it preseutL'd in strong relief the iiUMjuality 
of the hiws and tlie achninistration of them in their 
native country, at the sanie tinu^ alfoi'tlecl Ijicm tlie 
opportunity of ventiny; tlieir fet linu;s, and expressing 
their sentiments hohlly, in their new liomes. Tlius 
the injustice of tl»e iMi^lish pohcy in the athiiinistra- 
tioii of Irehmd, hy an ohvious process of retrihutivc 
justice, exercised indirectly a most potent inlUiencc 
in bringint;; about the dismemberment of the liritish 
empire, — and the political crimes committed for cen- 
turies on the soil of Ireland were punished through 
the instrumentality of Irishmen on the soil of Ame- 
rica. Among the Irish emigrants, it is needless to 
say, there were men of great intelligence and enter- 
prise. James Logan (father of .lames Logan, a mem- 
ber of the Society of the Friendly sons of St. l^atrick) 
tlie confidential friend and counsellor of William 
Penn, and for some time president of the council of 
the Province, (a monument of whose learning and 
liberality still remains in the Loganian Library,) was 
a native of the North of Ireland. Many others might 
be named, greatly distinguished before the revolution. 
Perhaps the most unequivocal token of the general 
intelligence and resj)ectability of these emigrants of 
every class and sect, may be found in the tolerance 
with which they regarded the religious o|)inions of 
each other, since it is well known that in their native 
country, the spirit of sectarian intolerance and bi- 
gotry has always burned fiercely, in an inverse ratio 



{ 1'' ) 

10 tlic 'mlclli^(Mirc of llu* proplo. 'J'his religious 
liljnrality aiul charity will be IoiiikI very conspicuous 
ill th(; history of the Society of the I-'ricndly Sons of 
St. IVitricU, wlicrc Catholics, Presbyterians, (Qua- 
kers and Kj)iscopalians were united like a banil of 
l>rothers, wln-ther they met at the banciuct to relax 
the severities of business, or joined in plans of bene- 
volence to relieve the distressed, or at the stern call 
of duty and patriotis''m, marclied in close-knit ranks 
to vindicate the outraged rij^bts of their adopted 
country, or ofTer up their lives as a sacrifice on the 
altar of her liberty. The lives of the members of 
tiiis society abound in examples of self-denial, and 
sacrifices of time, labour, blood, property and life, and 
aflbrd a fair specimen of the sincerity and ardour 
with which the Irish people tlirouu;hout the whole 
continent espoused "the f^lorious cause in which 
America was then embarked.'* 

Some, like liarry, exchanfi;ed the festivities of the 
Society for the ocean revels of the tempest and the 
battle. Many, like Wayne, led the van in every 
hard-fout^ht field of the revolutionary war, or patiently 
endured the hardsiiij)s of Valley For^e, — and none 
were more cflicient in executing]; daring and confi- 
dential services than the Friendly Sons of St. Patrick, 
who fought in the First Troop of Philadelphia Ca- 
valry. Other members of the Society, who by mer- 
cantile enterprise and industry, had accumulated 
wealth, freely })ourcd it into the coflers of the Na- 
tional Treasury, or patiently submitted to its destruc- 
tion by the wantonness of Hessian mercenaries. 

In referring to the origin of the Society of the 



( 16 ) 

Friendly Sons of St. Patrick, we find some other as- 
sociations in the Province with which many of its 
members were connected; and which, therefore, may 
be briefly mentioned here. The famous Fishing 
Club, which is still in existence, was founded in the 
year 1732, under the appellation of "The Colony in 
Schuylkill.'* After the revolutionary war, this co- 
lony, with mock solemnity, declared its independence 
under the name of "The Schuylkill Fishing Com- 
pany of the State in Schuylkill.'* The new State 
proceeded to elect its Governor, Council, and other 
ministers of sovereign power, — adopted a code of 
laws, providing for military expeditions against the 
squirrels, rabbits, partridges, and pheasants of the 
surrounding country, — and having especial regard to 
the preservation and gradual increase of their navy 
and ordnance on the Schuylkill, (namely, their fish- 
ing-boats and tackle,) without neglecting the fortifi- 
cations of their Baronial Castle and seat of govern- 
ment, situated on the site now occupied by Mr. 
Borie's house on the Schuylkill, but after the con- 
struction of the Fairmount dam, transferred to its 
present location below Gray's Ferry. Among the 
members of this "Colony or State" are found the 
names of Tench Francis, at divers times counsellor, 
and treasurer of "the State," &c., Jas. Logan, Francis 
Johnston, (the facetious secretary,) John Donnaldson^ 
and John Dickinson, author of the Farmer's Letters; 
all of whom were members of the Society of the 
Friendly Sons of St. Patrick. No doubt, others of 
the Society whose names will occur hereafter, were 
drafted from that jovial and happy "colony*" 



■,^ 

■A fL^: ( 17 ) ^' VcoUuiio '■ . ^ 

In the year 1766, the Gloucester Fox Hunting 
Club was instituted, and continued in existence until 
about the year 181S. Many of its members were 
also members of the Society of the Friendly Sons of 
St. Patrick, for instance, John Dunlap, afterwards 
Captain of the First Troop of Philadelphia Cavalry, 
John Mease, Blair M'Clenaghan, James Caldwell, 
Samuel Caldwell, John Lardner, Alexander Nesbitt, 
John Boyle, Jas. Mease, John Mitchell, John Dickin- 
son, Tench Francis, Rob't Morris, John White, John 
Cadwalader, Turbutt Francis, Rich'd Bache, Matthew 
Mease, James Moylan, Robert Glen, John Patton, 
Thomas Robinson, Sharp Delaney. In the memoirs 
of this Club it is stated that "not less than Iwenty-two 
of the members associated and formed the <^ First 
Troop of Philadelphia Cavalry." 

The greater part of these twenty-two were Irish- 
men, and members of the ^^f ciety of the Friendly 
Sons of St. Patrick. That Society has better claims 
than the Fox Hunting Club to the formation of the 
First Troop — for in addition to what has been al- 
ready said, the names of thirty-five members of the 
Society are found in its muster roll. 

This celebrated troop of cavalry, which still exists, 
and whose exploits during the revolution are so well 
known, was formed 17th Nov. 1774, by a number 
of "gentlemen of fortune," as General Washington 
calls them in his letter of Jan. 23, 1777. Of the 
original members of this troop, ten were drafted 
from the ranks of the Society of the Friendly Sons 
of St. Patrick, namely: James Mease, John Dunlap, 
Henry Hill, John Mease, John Boyle, John Mitchell, 
3 



( 18 ) 

George Campbell, Samuel Caldwell, Andrew Cald- 
well, and Blair M'Clenaghan. In 1775 and 1776, 
seven more of the Sons of St. Patrick joined the 
troop, namely: John Donnaldson, John Lardner, Al- 
exander Nesbitt, James Caldwell, George Fullerton, 
Francis Nichols, and Patrick Moore. In March, 
1777, John M. Nesbitt, James Crawford, George 

Henry, Wilson, (query if Jos. Wilson of the 

" Sons of St. Patrick?") and David H. Conyngham 
joined; and at various times before the end of the 
war the following members of the Society attached 
themselves to the troop, namely, George Hughes, 
John Murray, Michael Morgan O'Brien, John Bar- 
clay, John Patton and Francis Johnston*, making al- 
together twenty-nine members of the troop drafted 
during the war from the •^ Sons of St. Patrick.''* 
Others were afterwards added from the same source. 
Twenty-six members of the troop served in the 
campaigns of 1776 and 1777; — were at the battles of 
Trenton and Princeton, took a number of prisoners, 
and distinguished themselves on every occasion when 
their services were called for. General Mercer and 
General Washington both bear testimony to their 
efficiency in these campaigns. The latter, in dis- 
charging them from duty in Jan. 23, 1777, "returns 
to them his most sincere thanks for the many essen- 
tial services which they have rendered to their coun- 
try,and to himself personally during the course of that 
severe campaign." "Though composed," says he, 
•^of gentlemen of fortune, they have shown a noble 

* See Muster Roll of the First Troop of Philadelphia Ca- 
valry, p. 47, 48. 



( 19 ) 

example of discipline and subordination, and in se- 
veral actions, have shown a spirit and bravery, which 
will ever do honour to them, and will ever be grate- 
fully remembered by me.'^* 

In the campaign of 1799, or Northampton ex- 
pedition, having received notice of a general order 
directing the cavalry to hold themselves in readiness 
to march in a few days. Captain Dunlap makes the 
following characteristic reply. 

Wednesday evening, March 20th, 1799. 
Sir,— 

About an hour ago I received through you, the 
general orders of the Commander in chief, dated this 
day, with a letter directing me to report when the 
First Troop of Philadelphia Cavalry will be ready 
to march. With pleasure I tell you, that when the 
laws and government of this happy country require de- 
fence, the First Troop of Philadelphia Cavalry wants 
but one hour^s notice to march, 

I have the honour to be, with esteem, 
Your obedient and humble servant, 

JOHN DUNLAP." 

The troop joined the expedition, and were absent 
seventeen days. 

In the list of honorary members of the troop 
found in p. 28 — 30 of their bye-laws, &c., thirty 
members of the Sons of St. Patrick are found. The 
close connexion, or rather identity of so many mem- 
bers of the Society and the troop, will be a sufficient 
apology for noticing so fully the records of this dis- 

* See Bye-Laws of First Troop, p. 10, 11, &c. 



(20 ) 

tinguisbed body of patriots in an account of " The 
Friendly Sons of St. Patrick." We would not, 
however, be justified in following them farther. 
Enough has been said to lay a fair claim for the 
members of the Society to have had a large share in 
the honour of originating and long sustaining the 
troop. It may be added, that the members of the 
troop fully equipped themselves with horses, &c. at 
the expense of the individual members, so that even 
the scriptural query "who goeth a warfare any time 
at his own charge?" might receive in their case an 
affirmative response. 

After the revolution, the famous Society of the 
" Cincinnati " was instituted. In this, too, we en- 
counter the Friendly Sons of St. Patrick, figuring 
among the most active and prominent members. 
Brigadiers General Hand, Irvine, and Wayne, of the 
Friendly Sons of St. Patrick, were original mem- 
bers of the Cincinnati. So were the following: Ste- 
phen Moylan, Thomas Robinson and Walter Stewart; 
each of whom rose to the rank of Brigadier General; 
Richard Butler, afterwards Major General, Colonels 
Johnston, and Thos. L. Moore — Major James Moore, 
Capt. John Patterson, Capt. John Barclay, Capt. John 
Barry of the Navy, (the Commodore,) aU of the Friend- 
ly Sons of St. Patrick. In like manner many other 
members of the Society became honorary members 
of the Cincinnati; for instance, William Bingham, 
Sharp Delaney, John Dickinson, Blair M'Clenaghan, 
Robert Morris, Col. John Patton, Richard Peters, &c. 

With the exception of its honorary members, 
the Society of the Friendly Sons of St. Patrick was 



( 21 ) 

composed of Irishmen, or of those whose parents, (or 
one of them,) were Irish. They were for the most 
part "men of fortune," and associated on terms of 
familiarity, friendship, and equality with the first 
men of the province, or rather included among them 
the very best men of the country. It is not, there- 
fore, a matter of surprise, to find many of them oc- 
cupying the highest and most responsible stations in 
the army, navy, cabinet, and in congress; and all of 
them "distinguished for their firm adherence to the 
glorious cause of liberty, in which they embarked," 
with a zeal, ardour, and ability unsurpassed in those 
days of intense patriotism. 



SECTION II. 

OF THE OBJECTS AND RULES OF THE SOCIETY. 

The objects of the Society were purely social and 
convivial; — want and distress being at the time of 
its formation rare in the Province, did not require, 
so much as now, the union of individuals into asso- 
ciations for the purposes of charity. Yet it would 
be a great mistake to infer from this, that the Society 
was a useless one. As well might we condemn as 
useless, the friendly intercourse, which gives a zest 
to the dull routine of business and the stern requisi- 
tions of duty, as censure " those happy meetings 
when " (to use the language of Curran in reference 
to similar scenes,) "the swelling heart conceived 
and communicated the pure and generous purpose^ 
3* 



(22 ) 

the innocent enjoyment of social mirth expanded 
into the nobler warmth of social virtue, and the hori- 
zon of the board became enlarged into the horizon of 
man.'^ Certainly an association could not be deemed 
useless, which brought together in familiar contact, 
such men as Dickinson, Barry, Morris, Wayne, Fitz- 
simmons, Peters, the Moylans,Hopkinsons, and many 
others distinguished for their genius, talents, wit, and 
patriotism, — which bound them together by the tie 
of friendship, and made them acquainted with the 
character and qualifications of each other. The So- 
ciety was formed too at a time when unity of senti- 
ment and purpose among men of influence, was vital 
to the success of that mighty movement, which had 
already begun to agitate the minds of men. The 
circumstances of the times, and the character of the 
members, rendered such societies schools of patriot- 
ism and political wisdom, as well as associations for 
amusement, relaxation, conviviality and intellectual 
enjoyment. 

The regular meetings of the Society were held on 
the 17th days of March, June, September, and De- 
cember. Each member was required to furnish him- 
self with a gold medal of the value of three guineas, 
agreeably to the following description: On the right 
Hibernia — on the left America — in the centre Li- 
berty joining the hands of Hibernia and America, 
represented by the usual figures of a female sup- 
ported by a Harp for Hibernia, — an Indian with his 
quiver on his back, and his bow slung, for America, 
— underneath, Unite. On the reverse, St. Patrick 



(23) 

trampling on a snake, — a cross in his hand, — dressed 
in Pontificalibus, — the motto "Hiar." 

These devices, designed some years before the Re- 
volution, were certainly ominous, if not prophetic. — 
The goddess of Liberty joining the hands of Hibernia 
and America, with the superscription ^'Unite,'^ was 
suflQciently significant, considering that the effect of 
that union powerfully promoted the subsequent dis- 
memberment of the British empire, and the establish- 
ment of the liberty and independence of America, 
The motto Hiar, or without the aspirate lar, in the 
Celtic language, signifies "West," — and from it came 
the name of the country Ere, Erin, or Ireland; and 
lerna, aspirated Hibernia. But the word Hiar had 
in it a duplicate and equivocal signification, peculiarly 
appropriate as the motto of a society, whose object 
was to ^'Unite'^ in fellowship, the sons of the little 
Isle of the " West/' with those of the great continent 
of the ''West.'' 

This medal the members were obliged to wear at 
the meetings of the Society, under the penalty of 7s. 
6d. for neglect to do so on St. Patrick's day, and 5$. 
on the days of the quarterly meetings. 

Ten honorary members were eligible. The qua- 
lifications for ordinary members were, that the ap- 
plicant should be a descendent of Irish parents on 
either side in the first degree, or a descendant of a 
member ad infinitum (Honorary m.embers excepted.) 
So that the applicant must either have been a native 
of Ireland himself, or one of his parents must have 
been so, or he must have been a descendant of a 
member. Honorary members could not vote, and 



(24 ) 

were not subject to fines. These were the principal 
rules, and in how many particulars the Hibernian 
Society followed the parent Society, is obvious. The 
rules were doubtless pretty strictly adhered to when 
possible to be enforced. There is, however, one re- 
markable departure from them. When it was pro- 
posed to elect General Washington a member, it was 
found that neither of his parents were Irish. It is 
true he might have been elected an Honorary Mem- 
ber, but whether the constitutional number of ten 
was ah-eady full, or what is more likely, desiring a 
closer and more intimate fellowship with him than 
they enjoyed with the Honorary Members, and 
wishing him to have all the privileges of a genuine 
Son of St. Patrick, the fertile ingenuity of some of 
the members invented a plan by which Gen. Wash- 
ington could be converted into an Irishman, and 
thereby at once rendered eligible. They reasoned 
in this way, we ourselves have no American blood 
in our veins, yet, by adoption, we have become mem- 
bers of the young republic of America, and thereby 
Americans. Why then may not the Society of the 
Friendly Sons of St. Patrick make General Wash- 
ington an Irishman by adoption? This process of 
argumentation appears to have removed all scruples 
about the integrity of their rules, and "His Excel- 
lency, General Washington," (to use the language of 
the minutes of the 18th Dec. 1781,) "was unani- 
mously adopted (not elected) a member of the So- 
ciety." But we will have occasion to refer to that 
event hereafter. 



( ^5 ) 



SECTION in. 

BRIEF ACCOUNT OF THE SOCIETY, FROM 1771 TO 
1798. AND OF ITS ORIGINAL MEMBERS. 

The first meeting of the Society of the Friendly 
Sons of St. Patrick, appears from the minutes to have 
been held at Burns' Tavern, on Tuesday the 17th 
Sept. 1771, — when fifteen regular and two honorary 
members were present. There appear to have been 
twenty-four original members, besides seven honorary 
members. 

Before proceeding to the history of the Society, it 
is proposed to give in this place, (as far as we are 
able,) some sketches of the original members, re- 
serving other members for subsequent notice. 

Stephen Moylan^s name stands first on the list of 
original members, and his signature the first attached 
to the rules. He was the first President of the So- 
ciety, and was doubtless one of the most active in its 
formation. He seems also to have been the last Pre- 
sident of the Society, being restored to the office in 
1796, after an interval of twenty-two years. This 
gentleman was a native of Ireland, and brother 
to the Catholic Bishop of Cork in that country. 
Three of his brothers, Jasper, James and John, after- 
wards joined the society. Stephen Moylan entered 
the army of the Revolution, in which he soon be- 
came distinguished, was much in the confidence of 
General Washington, and rose to the rank of Briga- 



(26 ) 

dier General. He was a man of high honour and re- 
spectability, and one of the original members of the 
society of the Cincinnati. After the war he resided 
some years in Chester county, where he was Pro- 
thonotary of the Court. He died at Philadelphia, 
and is interred in the burial ground of St. Mary's 
Church, South Fourth street, where a monument co- 
vers his remains. 

George Meade, a native of Ireland and a Catholic, 
was a highly respectable and wealthy ship owner 
and merchant in Philadelphia, and many years part- 
ner in trade with Thomas Fitzsimmons, one of the 
original members. JVIr. Meade's high character and 
integrity may be inferred from the following anecdote. 
About the year 1790 he became embarrassed in his 
business and failed, owing to the insolvency of a 
house in France. His largest creditor was John 
Barclay, an extensive and liberal merchant of Lon- 
don. Immediately upon his failure Mr. M. wrote to 
Mr. B., informing him of Ihe condition of his affairs, 
but expressing a hope that he might yet be able to re- 
trieve his losses. Mr. B. in reply requested Mr. M. 
not to trouble his mind on account of the debt he al- 
ready owed, and directed him to draw at sight for 
^610,000 sterling more. With this generous assis- 
tance Mr. Meade was enabled to retrieve his fortunes, 
and had the satisfaction not only to repay Mr. B., 
but to dischargje all his former obligations in full. 
He was somewhat eccentric in his manners, but so- 
cial, hospitable, and benevolent. 

He was one of the founders of the Hibernian So- 
ciety, and subscribed ^5000, to supply the army with 
provisions in 1780. He died about thirty years ago. 



( 27 ) 

William West, the father of Francis West, and 
John West, also members of this Society, and grand- 
father of Captain West and Dr. West now of Phila- 
delphia, was a native of Ireland, and in those early- 
days, one of the heads of the Irish interest in Phila- 
delphia. He was an eminent dry goods merchant, 
greatly esteemed for his moral worth, sound discre- 
tion, abilities, and business talents. He was quarter 
master in the American army of the revolution, and 
died during the war. 

George Campbell was a native of Stewartstown 
in the county of Tyrone, Ireland, where the family 
had been long settled. He was admitted to practise 
at the Armagh assizes in 1751, and pursued the pro- 
fession until 1765, when he emigrated to Philadel- 
phia, where he passed the remainder of his days. At 
the time of the difficulties with Great Britain he 
took a warm interest in the question, and was among 
the originators of the first City Troop, in which he 
served until they obtained their discharge after the 
peace. He continued the practice of law, and was 
elected a member of the Legislature from the City, 
and appointed, in 17S3, Register of Wills for the 
City and County of Philadelphia, which he held 
by appointment of successive Governors until the 
year 1800, when from party feelings, he was re- 
moved. He died in the year 1810, at the age of 
80 years, enjoying the respect and esteem of all 
who knew him. He was one of the subscribers to 
the old Pennsylvania Bank in 1780, to supply the 
army with provisions. His son, George Campbell 
Esq., is a member of the Hibernian Society. 



( 28 ) 

MatlheiD Mease was born in Strabane, county 
Tyrone, Ireland, and emigrated at an early age to 
America, settling in Philadelphia, where his uncle, 
John Mease ^ an eminent and wealthy merchant, re- 
sided. Though educated for a merchant, he entered 
the American Navy, and became Purser of the " Bon- 
homme Richard." In the desperate encounter be- 
tween that vessel and the Serapis, Mr. Mease, not 
relishing the thought of being an idle spectator of the 
engagement, obtained from Paul Jones the command 
of the quarter deck guns, which were served under 
him, until he was carried below to the cockpit, 
dangerously wounded on the head by a splinter. f 
He died in Philadelphia, in 1787. 

James Mease was born in Strabane, Ireland, bro- 
ther of Matthew Mease, already mentioned, came to 

* John Mease, here referred to, was a native of Ireland, 
(Strabane,) and amassed a large fortune by mercantile busi- 
ness in Philadelphia. He was very liberal in his charities. 
As an instance, it may be mentioned, that he presented to 
the 1st Presbyterian Church of Philadelphia, the ground now 
occupied by the Presbyterian Church and grave-yard in Pine 
St., between 4th and 5th Streets, and a parsonage-house near 
3d and Willing's alley. He died in 1767. Two branches 
of the Mease family still exist in Ireland, one near Castlefin, 
county Donegal, and the other in Strabane. The late Dr. 
Mease of Strabane, was for many years physician in the fa- 
mily of the Marquis of Abercorn, and afterwards practised in 
Strabane, until his death some years ago. He was one of 
the most eminent physicians in the North of Ireland. The 
writer of this remembers him well. 

+ See Paul Jones' account in Sherburne's life of him, p. 
120, 



( 29 ) 

America before the revolution. He was one of 
those who originated the first Troop of Philadelphia 
cavalry, and served in it with gallantry, during the 
war. He was an eminent merchant, and subscribed 
^5000 for supplies to the American army in 1780. 

John Mease, brother of the foregoing, was born in 
Strabane, Ireland. He came to this country, in the 
year 1754, and for many years was an eminent 
shipping merchant of Philadelphia. He was an 
early and an ardent friend to the cause of indepen- 
dence, and one of the original members of the first 
Troop of city cavalry, of which his grandson, John 
Butler, is at present the Captain. On the ever me- 
morable night of the 25th of December, 1776, he was 
one of twenty-four of that corps who crossed the 
Delaware, with the troops under General Washington, 
when the Hessians were captured. 

Mr. Mease was one of five detailed to the ser- 
vice of keeping alive the fires along the line of the 
American encampment at Trenton, to deceive the 
enemy, whilst the Americans marched by a private 
route to attack their rear guard at Princeton. He 
served with the Troop until the end of the war, and 
sufiered great loss of property, in his warehouses and 
dwelling. For the last thirty years of his life, he 
was one of the admiralty surveyors of the Port of 
Philadelphia, and died in 1826, at the advanced 
age of 86. He subscribed £4000 to supply the army 
in 1780. His son, Dr. James Mease of Philadel- 
phia, still survives him. Mr. John Mease was the 
only man who continued, in the latter days, to wear 
4 



( 30 ) 

llie old three-cornered hat of the revolution, and was 
familiarly called " the last of the cocked hats,'' 

Thos. Fitzsimmons was a native of Ireland, and a 
Catholic. He was an extensive merchant of Phi- 
ladelphia, before and during the revolution, com- 
manded a volunteer company, and was engaged in 
active service during the war. After the war, he 
was for many years a member of the State Legisla- 
ture, and represented Philadelphia in Congress with 
distinction. He was for a long time a Director in 
the Bank of North America, and President of the 
Insurance Company of North America, in which 
latter office he continued until his death. He was a 
man of high and honourable character, and his influ- 
ence in the country, and especially among the mer- 
chants, was second to none. He married a sister of 
George Meade, and died about twenty years ago 
without issue. 

Mr. Fitzsimmons was one of the most efficient 
and able men who laid the foundations of the com- 
mercial and financial systems of the United States. 
He, and Mr. Goodhue of Salem, though they spoke 
but seldom and briefly, were always looked to in 
Congress for facts and the correction of errors in 
practical questions of commerce, exchange, &c., and 
the operation of legislative measures in relation 
thereto. To have been a counsellor and adviser of 
Franklin, Hamilton, and Jefierson, &c.,the coadjutor 
of Robert Morris, in what vitally concerned, not 
only the present safety, but the future prosperity of 
these United States, is fame that few men of those 
times could aspire to, and yet is nothing more than 



( 31 ) 

may with justice be claimed for Thomas Fitzsim- 
mons. His house, namely, Geo, Meade & Co. sub- 
scribed to supply the army in 1780, £5,000. His 
name is attached to the Constitution of the United 
States. 

John Mitchell, a native of Ireland, (a nephew 
of Mr. Andrew Caldwell, hereafter noticed,) was 
brought up a merchant. His father died of yellow 
fever in 1768. He resided many years in France as 
a merchant, was afterwards Consul of the U. S. at 
St. Jago de Cuba, and Admiralty Surveyor of the 
port of Philadelphia. He was a member of the First 
City Troop; a man of handsome manners and va- 
rious and extensive information. 

Randle Mitchell, a native of Ireland, was a partner 
of his brother John Mitchell, mentioned above, and 
a highly respectable man. 

Wm. Mitchell, was the first Secretary and Trea- 
surer of the Society. 

John Maxwell J^eshitt. This eminent merchant 
and devoted patriot, was a native of the North of 
Ireland, who emigrated to America before the revo- 
lution. In 1777 he joined the First Troop of Phila- 
delphia cavalry. He conducted one of the most 
extensive mercantile houses in Philadelphia, under 
the firm of J. M. Nesbitt & Co., during the war, and 
afterwards under the name of Conyngham & Nesbitt. 
He embarked his all in the cause of liberty, and with 
a devoted patriotism, not exceeded in history, fear- 
lessly staked his life, his fortune, and, what he valued 
more than both, his sacred honour, on the success of 
America. His benefactions to her cause had in 
them a simple greatness which should make his 



( 33 ) 

memory dear to America in every future age, as he 
was, whilst living, beloved and trusted by all his 
compatriots. Mention will hereafter be made of 
the formation of the Pennsylvania Bank for the sup- 
ply of the army of the United States with provisions, 
to which J. M. Nesbitt & Co. subscribed 565,000. 
But before that event, Mr. Nesbitt had already ren- 
dered most essential service to the army. This is 
related in Hazard's Reg. of Pa. vol. 6, p. 28. "So 
great was the distress of the American army in 17S0, 
that General Washington was apprehensive that they 
would not be able to keep the field. The army, 
however, was saved by a combination of providen- 
tial circumstances; Gen. Washington having written 
to Richard Peters, Esq., giving him full information 
of the state of the army, that gentleman immediately 
called on J. M. Nesbitt, Esq., and explained to him 
the distress of the army and the wishes of the Gene- 
ral.'' Mr. Nesbitt replied, " that a Mr. Howe, of 
Trenton, had offered to put up pork for him, if he 
could be paid in hard money. He contracted with 
Howe to put up all the pork and beef he could pos- 
sibly obtain, for which he should be paid in goW 
Mr. Howe performed his engagement, and J. M. 
Nesbitt & Co. paid him accordingly. Mr. Nesbitt 
told Mr. Peters that he might have this beef and 
pork, and in addition a valuable prize just arrived to 
Bunner, Murray & Co. laden with provisions. "1 
need not tell you," continues Mr. Hazard's corre- 
spondent, " how pleased Mr. Peters was with the re- 
sult of the application — the provisions were sent in 
time, and the army was saved. Mr. Nesbitt was 
a faithful coadjutor of Robert Morris during the war 



( 33 ) 

in the supply of money and necessaries for the army 
and in the support of public credit when Mr. Morris 
acted as financier." 

Mr. Nesbitt was the second President of the So- 
ciety of the Friendly Sons of St. Patrick, succeeding 
General Moylan, in 1773, and served at that time 
for one year. He was re-elected President of the 
Society, in June, 1782, and continued to be re-elected 
annually until his resignation in March, 1796, having 
been President of the Society, altogether, for nearly 
fifteen years. He was one of the founders of the 
Hibernian Society. 

Gen. John Shoe was a native of Ireland, and a 
merchant in Philadelphia, in partnership with Richard 
Bache, (one of the honorary members) the son-in- 
law of Dr. Benjamin Franklin. He served a cam- 
paign in 1776, and resigned his commission. He 
was taken prisoner at Fort Washington, York Island, 
after the battle of Long Island. 

Mr. Jefferson appointed him collector of the Port 
of Philadelphia. He was afterwards a General in 
the Militia, Colonel of Volunteers, and Treasurer of 
the City. 

Mr. Shee was a man of excellent manners, and 
good acquirements. He married an heiress, the 
beautiful and accomplished daughter of Mr. Law- 
rence, one of the principal merchants in Philadel- 
phia. He subscribed to supply the army in 1780. 

Thomas Barclay was a native of Ireland, and a 
man of great influence and respectability. He was 
President of the Society from June 17, 1779, to June 

17, 1781. Some years afterwards, he was appointed 

4* 



( 34 ) 

Consul General from the United States to the Bar- 
bary powers, but died at Lisbon, on his way to the 
North of Africa. He subscribed ^5,000 for supply- 
ing the army in 1780. He was a man of elegant 
manners. The family is connected with Mr. Shiel, 
M. P., the great Irish orator. 

Colonel John JSTixon, was a native of West-Chester, 
Pa., and a merchant of Philadelphia. His father, 
Richard Nixon, was born in Wexford, Ireland. Col. 
Nixon was an ardent, active, and most efficient friend 
of America in the revolutionary struggle. He was 
with his regiment at the battle on Long Island, and 
wintered at Valley Forge. He was for some time an 
Alderm.an of Philadelphia, and had the honour of 
first reading the Declaration of Independence, on the 
12th July, 1776, to the people assembled in Inde- 
pendence Square. This he did from the central 
window of the State House fronting the Square, 
during the tolling of the bell, on which had been 
engraved, twenty-three years before, these prophetic 
words — ^^ Proclaim liberty throughout all the land, unto 
all the inhabitants thereof.^' Lev. xxv. 10. 

The country seat of Colonel Nixon was burned by 
the British troops. He served as the first of the 
two Directors of the famous Bank of Pennsylvania, 
established in 1780, for supplying the army of the 
U. States with provisions — and subscribed ^5,000 
for that purpose. After the establishment of the 
Bank of North America in 1782, w^hich appears to 
have sprung from the Bank of Pa., he was made 
President of it, and continued in that office until his 
death. He carried the colours at the procession after 



( 35 ) 

the establishment of the Constitution of the U. S. In 
his person Col. Nixon is described as a remarkably 
fine portly man. His talents, patriotism, integrity 
and many virtues, won for him the respect and con- 
fidence of his fellow citizens. He died about Jan. 
1st, 1809. Several of his descendants still live in 
Philadelphia. 

John Boyle was a native of Ireland, and one of the 
original members of the First City Troop, celebrated 
for his social and convivial qualities. 

Geo. Fullerton, a native of Ireland, served in the 
First City Troop in the army of the Revolution. 
He died from a wound received by the accidental 
discharge of his pistol at a review near Trenton, in 
1776, and lies buried in the ground of the First 
Presbyterian Church, in Bank St., Philadelphia, near 
the spot which contained the remains of his gallant 
countryman " Haslet," who fell in the battle of 
Princeton. 

George Davis, was a native of Ireland, settled in 
Philadelphia, and afterwards removed to Trenton, 
N. J., a private gentleman — a man of amiable man- 
ners and highly esteemed by all the inhabitants of 
Trenton. He died a bachelor. 

Samuel Caldwell was a native of the north of Ire- 
land, an eminent shipping merchant, and partner of 
James Mease, constituting with him the firm of Mease 
and Caldwell. He was one of the founders of the 
First Troop, and one of the subscribers in 1780 to 
the bank formed to supply the army of the United 
States with provisions. He was appointed by Judge 
Francis Hopkinson, clerk of the District Court of the 



( 36 ) 

United States at Philadelphia, at the first opening of 
that court on the 6th of Oct., 1789. He continued in 
the office until his death in 1794. Mr. Caldwell was 
a man of great respectability, and highly esteemed 
by all who knew him. He was for many years se- 
cretary and treasurer of the society. 

Benjamin Fuller, a native of Ireland, was treasurer 
and secretary of the society, and president from 
June, 1776, to June, 1779. 

He was the most eminent ship broker of his time, 
in Philadelphia, remarkable for his correctness in bu- 
siness transactions. His accounts and minutes of the 
society are a pattern of neatness and precision. He 
accumulated a handsome fortune, and died a bachelor. 

Like many other gentlemen of that day, he ab- 
horred physic, and the visits of medical gentlemen in 
their official capacity. At one time, v/hile lying 
dangerously ill, on his snug little bed, in his bachelor 
chamber, over his counting-house, a consultation of 
physicians was held in his room. The doctors con- 
versed together in an audible voice, and just as they 
had concluded him past recovery, and that nothing 
farther could be done in his case, to their great as- 
tonishment, he drew aside the curtains, and ex- 
claimed in his usual energetic manner, "Gentlemen, 
I am greatly obliged to you! — I feel much better 
since you entered the room! — You may go away 
now, gentlemen, I shall not want your services any 
longer." While the physicians looked at each other in 
amazement, he rang the bell, and addressing the ser- 
vant, desired him to "show the gentlemen down 
stairs," They assured the servant his master was 



( 37) 

delirious, and presuming there was no hope of his re- 
covery, were proceeding to give directions that he 
might be indulged in any thing he should desire to 
have, when Mr. F. cut them short by calling out, 
"John, John, turn them out and fasten the doors after 
them; — V\\ take no more of their infernal drugs." 
On the return of the servant he had all the bottles 
and medicines thrown out of the window, and the 
crisis of his disease being then passed, he from that 
moment rapidly recovered. He lived for many years 
afterwards, and when his friends joked with him on 
this treatment of the doctors, he would reply, "The 
scoundrels wanted to kill me with their cursed stuffs, 
but I lived to attend both their funerals." Mr. 
Fuller subscribed £2,000 in 17S0, to supply the army 
with provisions. 

Tench Francis was a native of Pennsylvania. His 
father was Attorney General of the Province, and a 
relative of Dr. Francis, the translator of Horace, and 
Sir Philip Francis, one of the reputed authors of Ju- 
nius' letters. Mr. Francis was for many years agent 
for the Penn family in Pennsylvania — and was the 
first cashier of the Bank of North America, which 
office he retained until his death, about 20 years ago. 
Several of his descendants are living. Among them 
are Mr, Charles Francis, Mrs. George Harrison, 
Mrs. Joshua Fisher of Philadelphia, and Gov. Francis 
of Rhode Island, recently elected senator in Congress 
from that State. Mr. Francis was a bon vivant, wit, 
and man of talent. It appears from the minutes 
that Mr. Philip Francis was proposed as a member 
March 17, 1772. Query, was this the well known 



( 38 ) 

Sir Philip Francis? Mr. Francis subscribed £5,500 
in 1780, for supplying the American army. 

Col. Turhult Francis, a brother of Tench Francis, 
above named, served in the Revolutionary Army. He 
was the father of Samuel Mifflin, the respected Presi- 
dent of the Union Canal Company, who took the name 
of Mifflin to inherit the estates of his grand-father. 

•Andrew Caldwell, a native of Ireland, a highly re- 
spectable and successful merchant, and a member of 
the First City Troop. 



The attendance at the first meeting, Sept. 17, 1771, 
as has been said, consisted of fifteen ordinary and two 
honorary members. At that meeting. President Moy- 
lan appointed his council, treasurer, and secretary, 
which constituted the administration during the presi- 
dential term of office. At the meeting, January 17, 
1772, after the election of officers and members, 
whereof three were honorary, namely, Samuel Mere- 
dith, Richard Bache, and Lambert Cadvvalader, Mr. 
White reported that Mr. James Mease had written 
to him from London, that he had made inquiry there 
concerning the cost of a set of dies, for striking me- 
dals, (agreeably to the rules,) and found they would 
cost from £50 to ^^60 sterling. A tax of 50 shillings 
currency was thereupon imposed on each member to 
purchase a bill for £50 sterling, to be remitted to Mr. 
Mease, or in his absence to Mr. Wm. Mitchell. 

The dies were accordingly procured in London, 
but were left there in order that the medals might be 
cast, and sent out as ordered by the members. This 



( 39 ) 

arrangement had the effect of cutting off all supplies 
of medals during the continuance of the revolutionary 
war. When therefore General Washington, in Dec. 
1781, was adopted a member of the society, and it was 
determined to present him with a gold medal of the 
society, Mr. James Mease gave his medal for that 
purpose, and after the war a new one was imported 
for Mr. Mease from England.^ On the 17th Sept. 
1783, we find Samuel Caldwell the secretary, re- 
mitting to Capt. Isaac All, one of the members then 
in London, a bill of exchange for 439 livres Tour- 
nois, to procure a supply of medals, which it is to be 
presumed were duly furnished. The medal which 
belonged to Geo. Campbell, (President of the Society 
in 1781-2,) is now in possession of his son, George 
Campbell, Esq. of Philadelphia, a member of the Hi- 
bernian Society, and the medal which belonged to 
John Donnaldson, is still preserved and highly valued 
by his descendants. 

The beauty and perfection which they retain un- 
impaired, reflect much credit on the London artists 
who manufactured the dies and cast the medals — to 
say nothing of the taste of those who proposed the 
designs. 

The meetings of the society continued to be regu- 
larly held, sometimes at Burns' Tavern, sometimes 
at Duffy's, sometimes at Smith's, sometimes at the 
Wigwam, afterwards Evans', and again at the City 
Tavern, till Dec. 1775. At this time the revolu- 
tionary feeling had become intense, and the side 
which the members of the Society of the Friendly 

* See Correspondence, &c. 



(40) 

Sons of St. Patrick had taken is very unequivocally 
indicated by the record of their proceedings at the 
meeting of Dec. 17, 1775. A motion was made and 
seconded "that Thos. Batt, a member of this Society, 
should be expelled for taking an active part against 
the liberties of America; the determination was post- 
poned till the next meeting, in order for a more de- 
liberate consideration." At the next meeting, March 

1776, "The question being put upon the motion 
made at the last stated meeting, whether Capt. Thos. 
Batt be expelled from the Society, it was unanimously 
carried in the affirmative." At this meeting there 
were present twenty-one members, among them 
Generals Wayne, Shee and Nixon, and several of the 
First Troop of Philadelphia Cavalry. 

The pent-up flames of the war at last burst forth, 
and most of the members of the Society of the 
Friendly Sons of St. Patrick became participants and 
actors in the stirring scenes that followed. 

The festivities of the society, the wit, the song and 
the joke, yielded to the stern requisitions of duty — 
and the excitement of the banquet was succeeded by 
that of danger, battle, and glory. The minutes of 
the society come down regularly to the meeting of 
June 17, 1776. Here there is a gap until Sept. 17, 
1778, with this only entry, namely: "The State of 
Pennsylvania having been invaded, and the city of 
Philadelphia taken by the British army under the 
command of General Sir Wm. Howe, in September 

1777, the society had no meeting until Sept. 1778; 
the minutes of the meetings of September and De- 
cember, 1776, and March and June, 1777, areunfor- 



(41 ) 

tunately lost." The meetings from Sept. '78 until 
the end of the war were regularly held, and though 
those who were in the army and navy, are generally 
noted as absent, yet we find many of them snatching 
occasional momentsof enjoyment, amid the hardships 
of war, in a reunion at the festivals of the society. 
'^Msent in camp,^' ^^ absent at sea^''^ are frequent en- 
tries opposite the names of members, and at the 
meeting of the 17th June, 1779, it was "agreed that 
such members of the society as are officers in the 
army, shall not be subject to fines for absence while 
in service in the field.'* General Wayne was pre- 
sent at this meeting, as were several members of the 
First Troop — Colonel Walter Stewart, John Palton, 
Com. Barry and Mr. John Dunlap, afterwards Capt. 
of the First Troop. The case of members absent at 
sea had been already provided for in the 4th rule. 

Intimately connected with the glory of the Society 
of the Sons of St. Patrick, is a matter which must 
be referred to in some detail. 

In the year 1780, a transaction took place in Phi- 
ladelphia, almost unparalleled in the history of na- 
tions and patriotism, which casts a lustre not only on 
the individuals who were the authors of it, but on 
the whole community to which they belonged. 

If the glorious examples of the past could influence 
the conduct of men of the present day, the reputation 
and good name of Philadelphia and Pennsylvania 
would soon be firmly fixed on so immovable a pe- 
destal, as to defy the malicious assaults of British 
libellers, and even the more dangerous folly, selfish- 
ness, and cowardice of our own partisan politicians. 
5 



(42 } 

At the time alluded to, when every thing depended 
on a vigorous prosecution of the war, when the Ame- 
rican army was in imminent danger of being com- 
pelled to yield to famine, a far more dangerous enemy 
than the British, when the urgent expostulations of 
the commander-in-chief, and the strenuous recom?7ien- 
dations of Congress, had utterly failed to arouse a just 
sense of the danger of the crisis, the genuine love of 
country, and most noble self-sacrifices of some indi- 
viduals in Philadelphia, supplied the place of the 
slumbering patriotism of the country, and saved her 
cause from most disgraceful ruin. In this great 
emergency was conceived and promptly carried into 
operation, "the plan of the Bank of Pennsylvania, 
established for supplying the army of the United 
States with provisions for two months." 

On the 17th June, 1780, the following paper, which 
deserves to rank as a supplement to the Declaration 
of Independence, was signed by ninety-three indi- 
viduals and firms; 

"Whereas, in the present situation of public afiairs 
in the United States, the greatest and most vigorous 
exertions are required for the successful management 
of the just and necessary war in which they are en- 
gaged with Great Britain: We, the subscribers, deeply 
impressed with the sentiments that on such an occa- 
sion should govern us, in the prosecution of a war, 
on the event of which our own freedom, and that of 
our posterity, and the freedom and independence of 
the United States are all involved, hereby severally 
pledge our property and credit for the several sums 
specified and mentioned after our names, in order to 



(43 ) 

support the credit of a bank to be established for fur- 
nishing a supply of provisions for the armies of the 
United States: And do hereby severally promise 
and engage to execute to the Directors of the said 
Bank, bonds of the form hereunto annexed. 

"Witness our hands, this 17th day of June, in the 
year of our Lord, 1780."* 

Then follow the names of the subscribers with the 
sums respectively subscribed, amounting to <£300,00Cf 
Pennsylvania currency, payable in gold or silver. 

Of this amount, twenty-seven members of the 
Friendly Sons of St. Patrick subscribed, £103,500. 
The names of these, with the amounts of their sub- 
scriptions, are as follow: namely, 
Robert Morris, - £10,000 John Mease, - - £4,000 



Blair M'Clenachan, 


10,000 


Bunner, Murray, & Co 


. 6,000 


William Bingham, 


5,000 


John Patton, - 


2,00(1 


J. M. Nesbitt & Co., 


5,000 


Benjamin Fuller, - 


2,000 


Richard Peters, - 


5,000 


Geo. Meade & Co., 


2,000 


Samuel Meredith, - 


5,000 


John Donnaldson, - 


2,000 


James Mease, - 


5,000 


Henry Hill, - - 


5,000 


Thomas Barclay, - 


5,000 


Kean &, Nichols, - 


4,000 


Hugh Shiell, - - 


5,000 


James Caldwell, - 


2,000 


John Dunlap, - 


4,000 


Samuel Caldwell, - 


1,000 


John Nixon, - 


5,000 


John Shee, 


1,000 


George Campbell, - 


2,000 


Sharp Delany, 


1,000 



Tench Francis, 5,500. 

There were five inspectors of the Bank, of whom 
three, Robert Morris, J. M. Nesbitt, and Blair 
M'Clenachan, were members of the St. Patrick's, 
So was the first of the two directors, John Nixon, 



* American Remembrancer, vol. x., p. 229. — 6 Haz. Reg. 
of Pennsylvania, p. 28,-2 do. 259—261. 



(44 ) 

and the factor, Tench Francis. All these agreed to 
serve without compensation. The several bonds 
were executed to the two directors, and were condi- 
tioned for the payment of an amount not exceeding 
the sum subscribed by each obligor, for furnishing a 
supply of provisions for the armies of the United 
States. The bank opened July 17, 1780, in Front 
street, two doors below Walnut. The tenth and last 
instalment was called in on the 15th Nov. 17S0. The 
bank continued in operation till the establishment of 
the bank of North America, Jan. 7, 1782, which ap- 
pears to have sprung from it, and to have monopo- 
lized the glory which belonged to the old bank of 
Pennsylvania, of having rendered essential service to 
the country during the revolution.* Geo. Campbell, 
Esq., whose father was a subscriber, has in his pos- 
session several of the original bonds. 

At length, the clouds which had hung heavily over 
the liberties of America, began to be dissipated by 
the glorious sun-burst of victory, and the surrender 
of Cornwallis extinguished the last hope of the Bri- 
tish in America. Once more the convivial reunions 
of the Friend!}^ Sons of St. Patrick revived, and 
in the winter of 1781-2, commenced a series of bril- 
liant entertainments, continued at intervals for several 
years, which fairly entitle this epoch to the appella- 
tion of the Golden Age of the society. 

General Washington had now become acquainted 
with the talents, courage, and patriotic devotion of 
most of the members of the society; not to be sure 
at the festive board, but on many a hard-fought field, 

* Gouge's History of Paper Money and Banking, chap. 4. 
a Haz. Reff. of Pa. 259—261. 



(45 ) 

and by the substantial evidence of pounds, shillings, 
and pence. The steady courage of Moylan, Irvine, 
and Cadwalader, the impetuous boldness of Wayne, 
the fiery valour of Thompson, Stewart, and Butler, 
the efficient services of the First Troop, were fully 
appreciated by the calm observation of Washington. 
These had all been among his dearest companions in 
arms, — and a fellowship in danger, hardship, and vic- 
tory, already united them to him by the strongest 
ties of affection. It was very natural, therefore, that 
when these Sons of St. Patrick met, during the short 
intervals of war, and at the close of each campaign, 
they should desire that he who had been their com- 
mander, their companion and their friend, amidst 
other scenes, should unite in their festive enjoyments, 
to smooth the brow so long furrowed with care, but 
now crovvned with laurels. 

Accordingly, at a meeting of the president of the 
society and his council, on the 7th December, 1781, 
General Washington, being then in Philadelphia, by 
the request of congress, the secretary was directed to 
invite his Excellency and suite, in the name of the 
society, to dinner, on the 17th December, at the City 
Tavern, *'but that this deviation from the rules of (he 
society should not be deemed a precedent hereafter." 
General Washington was prevented by other engage- 
ments from accepting this invitation. On the 17th, 
however, a numerous meeting of the society was 
held, and dined at Evans' Tavern. — Generals Hand 
and Knox were proposed as members, and, after- 
wards, duly elected. On the same evening, " Jiis 
Excellency, General Washinglon, was unanimously 
5* 



(45) 

adopted a member of the society. It was ordered that 
the president, vice-president, and secretary, wait on 
his Excellency with a suitable address on the occa- 
sion, and present him with a medal in the name of 
the society. Also, that they invite his Excellency 
and his suite, to an entertainment to be prepared and 
given him at the City Tavern, on Tuesday, the first 
of January, (1782,) to which the secretary is requested 
to invite the president of the state, and of Congress, 
the Minister of France, M. Marbois, M. Otto, the 
Chief Justice, the speaker of the House of Assembly^ 
Mr. Francis Rendon, M. Holker, Count de la Touche, 
and Count Dillon, with all the general officers that 
may be in the city." 

In pursuance of this order, the president and se- 
cretary waited on General Washington with the fol- 
lowing address: ^ - - • -' /•- . 
" May it please your Excellenc)', 

"The society of the Friendly Sons of St. Patrick,, 
in this city, ambitious to testify, with all possible re- 
spect, the high sense they entertain of your Excel- 
lency's public and private virtues, have taken the 
liberty to adopt your Excellency a member. 

'« Although they have not the clothing of any civil 
establishment, nor the splendour of temporal power 
to dignify their election, yet they flatter themselves, 
that as it is the genuine offspring of hearts filled with 
the warmest attachments, that this mark of their es- 
teem and regard will not be wholly unacceptable to 
your Excellency. 

"Impressed with these pleasing hopes, they have 
directed me to present to your Excellency a gold me- 
dal, the ensign of this fraternal society, which, that you 



(47) 

may be pleased to accept, and long live to wear, is 
the warmest wish of 
" Your Excellency's 

most humble and respectful servant, 
By order and in behalf of the Society, 

Geo. Campbell, President. 
*'To his Excellency, General Washington, 

Commander-in-Chief of the Allied Army.'* 

To which his Excellency was pleased to give the 
following answer, namely: 

"Sir: 

. "I accept with singular pleasure, the Ensign of so 
worthy a fraternity as that of the Sons of St, Patrick 
in this city; — a society distinguished for the firm ad- 
herence of its members to the glorious cause in which we 
are embarked. 

" Give me leave to assure you, sir, that I shall never 
cast my eyes upon the badge with which I am ho- 
noured, but with a grateful remembrance of the 
polite and aflfectionate manner in which it was pre- 
sented. 

" I am, with respect and esteem. 

Sir, your most obedient servant, 

George Washington. 

'^To George Campbell, Esq., President of the Soci- 
ety of the Friendly Sons of St. Patrick, in the City 
of Philadelphia." 

"After which the President, (by a card) having 
requested the honour of his Excellency's company, 
together with the gentlemen of his suite, at dinner, 
at the City Tavern, on Tuesday, the 1st of January, 



(48 ) 



he was pleased to accept of the invitation, and accord- 
ing to the order of last meeting, the Secretary sent 
cards to all the persons therein specified, requesting 
the pleasure of their company at same place and time, 
namely, 4 o'clock. 

" At an extra meeting at George Evans', on Tues- 
day, the first of January, 1782, the following gentle- 
men were present. 



His Excellency, General 

Washington, 
Gen. Lincoln, 
Gen. Steuben, 
Gen. Howe, 
Gen. Moultrie, 
Gen. Knox, 
Gen. Hand, ^ 

Gen. M'Intosh, 
His Excellency, M. Luzerne, 
M. Rendon, 

His Excellency, M. Hanson, 
His Excellency, Wm. Moore, 
Mr. Muiilenberg, 
Col. French Tilghman, 
Col. Smith, 
Major Washington, 
Count Dillon, 
Count De la Touche, 
M. Marbois, 
M. Otto, 
M. Holker. 



John Nixon, 
Samuel Caldwell, 
Andrew Caldwell, 
Mr. James Mease, 
Sharp Delany, Esq. 
Mr. D. H. Conyngham, 
Mr. George Henry, 
Mr. Blair JVI'Clenachan, 
Mr. Alexander Nesbitt, 
Mr. John Donnaldson, 
Mr. John Barclay, 
Mr. James Crawford, 
Mr. John Patton, 
Mr. James Caldwell, 
Mr. John Dunlap, 
Mr. Hugh Shiell, 
Mr. George Hughes, 
Mr. M. M. O'Brien, 
Jasper Moylan, Esq. 
Col. Ephraim Blaine, 
Col. Charles Stewart, 
Col. Walter Stewart, 
Col. Francis Johnston, 



21 Guests. 

Geo. Campbell, Esq., President. Dr. John Cochran, 

Mr. Thos. Fitzsimmons, V. P. Mr. Wm. Constable, 

Wm. West, Henry Hill, Esq. 

Matthew Mease, Robert Morris, Esq. 

John Mease, Samuel Meredith, Esq. 
John Mitchell, 35 Members, 

J. M. Nesbitt, 



(49 ) 

This brilliant entertainment, it will be seen, was 
graced by the presence of the bravest and most dis- 
tinguished generals of the allied army of America 
and France, Generals Washington, Lincoln, Howe, 
Moultrie, Knox, Hand, M'Intosh, and Baron Steu- 
ben — Colonels Washington, Smith, Tilghman, Count 
Dillon, a French officer of Irish descent, afterward 
much distinguished in the wars of the French revo- 
lution, and Count de la Touche. The French and 
Spanish ministers with their Secretaries, &c., were 
also present. Several of the First Troop, (members 
of the Society,) Colonels Charles and Walter Stew- 
art — Colonels Blaine and Johnston, with Robert 
Morris, Samuel Meredith, and Henry Hill, honorary 
members. 

The next regular meeting, (the anniversary meet- 
ing of the Society,) was held at George Evans', on 
Monday, the 18th March, 1782 — and was even more 
brilliant than the preceding one. General Wash- 
ington being still in Philadelphia, was present with 
Generals Lincoln, Dickinson, Moultrie, and Baron 
Steuben, Messrs. Muhlenberg, Moore and Hanson, 
Captain Truxton, of the Navy, &c. Of the honorary 
members, John Dickinson, Robert Morris, Samuel 
Meredith and Henry Hill, were present. Commo- 
dore Barry is mentioned as beyond sea, and Wayne, 
Butler, Irvine and Cochran, at camp. Generals 
Hand and Knox, and Captain Thomas Read, were 
elected members. 

But to pursue the history of the Society in farther 
detail would be tedious — suffice it to say that the 
usual conviviality, the elegant hospitality, and the 



( 50 ) 

harmony and friendship which had ever characterized 
the Society, continued until its dissolution. During 
the long Presidency of J. M. Nesbitt, from June 
17th, 1782, to March 17th, 1796, the meetings, espe- 
cially the anniversaries, were well attended. It will 
be sufficient, therefore, to refer to the extracts from 
the minutes, and the original minutes themselves in 
possession of the Hibernian Society, for a more mi- 
nute account of their transactions. This part of Ihe 
work may be concluded, therefore, with lists of some 
of the guests who attended the dinners of the Soci- 
ety, and of the officers of the Society, from 1771, 
to 1798. 

Among the guests at the quarterly and anniversa- 
ry meetings, are the following. 

Their Honours the Governors, in 1772-3 and 4, 
Richard Penn, and John Penn. Mr. Bayard, Jas. 

Delancy, Esq., Dr. Steel, John Ross, Esq., 

Burnett, Esq., Colonel Fell, Philip Dickinson, Mr. 
Livingston, Mr. Haliday, Gen. Lee, Mr. Benezet, 
Dr. Sandiford, Cumberbatch Sober, Esq., John Ew- 
ing, Mr. Junifer, Mr. Hyde, Mr. Shippen, Mr. Mau- 
rice, Daniel Roberts, Joseph Devonish, Pres. Reed, 
(1781,) Chevr. Paul Jones, Pres. Huntington, Mr. 
Speaker Muhlenberg, Gov. Howley, Col. Tennent, 
Capt. Nicholson, Gen. Howe, Major M'Pherson, 
Gen. Lincoln, Gen. Steuben, Gen. Moultrie, Gen. 
Mcintosh, His Excellency M. Luzerne, Mr. Sect'y 
Rendon, His Excellency M. Hanson, His Excell'y 
Mr. William Moore, Col. Smith, Col. Tench Tilgh- 
man. Major Washington, Count Dillon, Count De la 
Touche, M. Marbois, M. Otto, M. Holker, Colonel 



{ 51 ) 

Humphreys, Major Walker, Captain Colefax, Capt. 
Truxton, Mr. Van Berkell, Judge M'Kean, Gov. 
Morris, Judge Hopkinson, The Imperial Resident 
Mr. Lear, Gov. Mifflin, Judge Biddle, Mr. Jefferson, 
Mr. Hamilton, Judge Wilson, Mr. Casseneave, The 
President of the State, (in 1786,) The Chief Justice, 
Charles Biddle, William Smith, John Shaw, General 
Armstrong, General Mifflin, Colonel Howard, &c. 
&c. Many of the most distinguished guests were 
in frequent attendance. 

Presidents of the Society, from 1771, to 179S, viz. 
Stephen Moylan, from 1771, to June 17, 1773. 
J. M. Nesbitt, from June, 1773, to June, 1774. 
Wm. West, from June, 1774, to June, 1776. 
Benjamin Fuller, from June, 1776, to June, 1779. 
Thomas Barclay, from June, 1779, to June, 1781. 
George Campbell, from June, 1781, to June, 1782. 
J. M. Nesbitt, from June, 1782, to March, 1796 — 

(thirteen years, nine months.) 
Stephen Moylan, from March, 1796, to 1798. 

Secretaries and Treasurers, viz. 
Wm. Mitchell, 1771. 
Benjamin Fuller, March, 1772. 
Samuel Caldwell, Sept. 8th, 1775. 
John Brown, Sept. 17th, 1792. 



( 52 ) 



SECTION IV. 



SKETCHES OF THE HONORARY MEMBERS. 

Henry Hill was a native of Maryland, and many 
years a merchant trading with Madeira. '^ Hill's 
Madeira " was proverbial. He resided in the house in 
4th street, below Spruce Street, afterwards occupied 
by the late Dr. Physick. He died of the yellow fever, 
in 1798, leaving a very large estate, but no family. 
Mr. Hill was a member of the Legislature, and a 
mild, amiable, highly respectable man. He sub- 
scribed ^5,000 in 1780, for supplies to the American 
army. 

John Dickinson, a distinguished lawyer, statesman 
and writer. He was President of Delaware and of 
Pennsylvania, a member of the Pennsylvania as- 
sembly, in 1764, of the general congress, in 1765, of 
the first revolutionary congress, in 1774, and subse- 
quent years. Though doubtful of the expediency 
of declaring independence, yet when once declared, 
he was the only member of Congress who marched, 
within a few days after, to meet the enemy. He 
wrote many of the able and eloquent state papers 
issued by the first Congress, having already acquired 
an uncommon reputation b3^his celebrated "Farmer's 
Letters." His writings greatly contributed to the 
success of the Revolution. His conversation and 
manners were very attractive, and his countenance 



( S3 ) 

and person very fine. He died at Wilmington, 14th 
February, 180S, aged 75. Encyclopaedia Americana^ 
Vol. iv. p, 227. 

Robert Morris, the distinguished financier, was a 
native of England. At the age of thirteen he came 
to America and entered the counting-house of Charles 
Willing, Esq. At Mr. Willing's death he became a 
partner of his son Thomas Willing, Esq., and the con- 
nexion lasted 39 years. He took a decided part on the 
side of the Colonies against the mother country, and 
had the control of the American finances from, 1781, 
to the close of the war. His house was a scene of 
the most liberal hospitality, and open for nearly half 
a century to all the strangers of distinction who 
visited Philadelphia. Mr. Morris was a man of tem- 
perate habits, but fond of convivial meetings. He 
died in impoverished circumstances Sth of May, 1806, 
aged 71. (Encyc. Amer. Vol. ix. p. 229.) Henry 
Morris, the late excellent sheriff of Philadelphia, was 
his son. In 1780, Mr. Morris subscribed £10,000 
for supplying the American army with provisions. 

Richard Penn, grandson of Wm. Penn, and son of 

Richard Penn, and Lardner, his wife, was born 

in 1734. This gentleman was the most amiable and 
popular of all the descendants of Wm. Penn, and, 
had his spirit and principles been paramount in the 
province, much of the quarrelling and heart-burn- 
ings between the proprietaries, governors, and as- 
sembly, would have been prevented. He was lieu- 
tenant-governor of the Province from October, 1771, 
to September, 1773, when his administration was 
6 



( 54 ) 

terminated by the return of his brother, John Penn, 
from England. He married Miss Polly Masters, 
and died in England in ISll, aged 77, leaving seve- 
ral children. His wife died in 1829, aged 73. He 
is described as a fine, portly-looking man, and a 
bon vivanU Of course, he went to England on the 
breaking out of the Revolutionary War, without, 
however, forfeiting the regard of his friends, who 
belonged to the resistance party. He presented to 
George the 3d the last petition sent by the colonies, 
i^.t a dinner of the Society prior to his leaving Phi- 
ladelphia, he is said to have perpetrated this signifi- 
cant pun. Several gentlemen present were discussing 
.he expediency of union, and the necessity the friends 
of liberty lay under, ^Ho hang together,' ' in order to 
ensure the success of their cause. Mr. Penn, laugh- 
ing, remarked, "Unless you hang together, you will 
very likely hang separately.^' 

James Searle was a native of Cork, Ireland, and a 
wine merchant of Philadelphia, having also a house 
in the island of Madeira, under the firm of John 
Searle and Co. " Searle's Madeira^' was as famous 
a brand as "Hill's." He died about the year 1799. 
Mr. Searle was one of the greatest wits of the time, 
.a high-bred gentleman, and very convivial. 

William Hicks was prothonotary of Buck's county, 
and died during the war. 

General John Cadwalader, one of the best and 
bravest officers of the Revolutionary war, and one of 
the earliest advocates of the cause of liberty, was a 
native of Philadelphia, where he raised and com- 
manded a company of volunteers, composed of the 



( 55 ) 

young men of Philadelphia, called by the tories the 
silk stocking company, but most of whom were af- 
terwards distinguished officers in the regular army. 
He was a member of the Pennsylvania Convention 
of 1775, appointed by Congress Brigadier General 
in 1777, participated in the battles of Princeton, 
Brandywine, Germantown, and Monmouth. His 
vote in the council of war decided the question of 
the attack in the last mentioned engagement. Wash- 
ington intrusted him with one of the divisions of the 
army, in the attack at Trenton. After the war, he 
was a member of the assembly of Maryland, where 
he died, February 10, 1786, aged 43. He was a re- 
lative of John Dickinson, and a gentleman of great 
fortune; grandfather of the present General George 
Cadwalader, of Philadelphia. 

Richard Bache was a native of England, and came 
to this country in early life, and at the beginning 
of the Revolution was chairman of the republican 
society, in Philadelphia. He married the only 
daughter of Dr. Benjamin Franklin, whom he 
succeeded, as Post-master General of the United 
States, November, 1776, which office he retained 
until 1782. He died in Berks county, Penna., 
July 29, 1811, aged 74. Mr. Bache was one of the 
originators of the Hibernian Society. His grandson, 
Alexander Dallas Bache, who now superintends the 
coast survey under the government of the United 
States, and was late a professor in the Military aca- 
demy at West Point and in the Universit}^ of Penn- 
sylvania, is one of the most distinguished scientific 
men in the country. 



( 5Q ) 

Colonel Lambert Cadwalader, brother of the pre- 
ceding General John Cadwalader, was an officer in the 
Revolutionary army. He was in the battle on Long 
Island, and at Fort Washington, where he was taken 
prisoner, but afterwards exchanged. He was a re- 
presentative in Congress, from New Jersey after the 
war, and one of the commissioners appointed by 
Washington for receiving subscriptions to the first 
Bank of the United States. He died about 20 years 
ago, near Trenton, New Jersey, where his son. Ge- 
neral Cadwalader, now resides. He was a highly 
honourable gentleman. 

Samuel Meredith, son of Reese Meredith, an emi- 
nent merchant, the particular friend of General 
Washington, and early patron of Commodore Barry. 

JSIr. Meredith was a man of large fortune. He 
served as Colonel in the Militia in several campaigns 
during the war of the Revolution, and was appointed 
by Washington treasurer of the United States. He 
married a sister of General John Cadwalader, and re- 
moved to Luzerne, where he died, about 20 years 
ago. Colonel Meredith subscribed i;5,000 for the 
army in 17S0. He was a high-bred gentleman, and 
a most amiable and honourable man. 

William Hamilton, a native of Philadelphia, and a 
man of very great wealth. He owned the ground 
upon which the city of Lancaster is built, besides 
very valuable real property in and around Philadel- 
phia, and resided at the Woodlands on the banks of 
the Schuylkill. He was an eminent botanist, and 
fond of conviviality. Being supposed to have es- 
poused the cause of Great Britain against the colonies, 



( 57 ) 

and, after the commencement of the war, having 
ceased to attend the meetings of this society, we find 
the followingentry upon the minutes of the meeting on 
the 17th June, 1782: "Upon motion made and second- 
ed, resolved that the vote of this society be taken at the 
next meeting vvhether William Hamilton, Esq., shall 
be longer considered an honorary member of this soci- 
ety." And at the meeting on 17th Sept., 17S2, the fol- 
lowing: "The vote being taken, agreeably to the re- 
solve of last meeting, respecting William Hamilton, 
Esq., the members met, having considered the cir- 
cumstances respecting this gentleman, and particularly 
having observed that he hath not attended any of the 
meetings of the Society since the anniversary 1774, 
though he hath been regularly notified of all the 
meetings since held, we therefore presume it is either 
inconvenient or not agreeable to his own inclinations 
to attend, and therefore vote that he be no longer 
considered as an honorary member of the Society." 
Mr. Hamilton was afterwards tried at Philadelphia 
for treason, but acquitted. He died about twenty 
years since. 

John Lardner was a native of Philadelphia, and son 
of Linford Lardner, an English gentleman of high 
breeding, and one of the council of the Province, 
both before and after the death of William Penn. 
Mr. John Lardner served during the war in the first 
City Troop, which one of his sons recently com- 
manded. The Lardner family have always been 
highly honourable and respectable. Several of his 
sons are now living in the city of Philadelphia. 

6* 



( 58 ) 

Richard Peters was an eminent American judge 
and agriculturist. Born near Philadelphia, Augu&t 
22d, 1744. From his youth he was distinguished for 
his wit, humour, and vivacity. He was closely con- 
nected with Robert Morris in all the exertions and 
sacrifices which were made for supplying the necessi- 
ties of the American army. At the opening of the Re- 
volution, he became a captain of a company of volun- 
teers; was afterwards employed in the War Office, 
and served for some time as a member of Congress, 
General Washington appointed him Judge of the 
District Court of Pennsylvania, which office he occu- 
pied with distinguished ability for thirty-six years, 
until his death. In private life he was pre-eminent 
for convivial humour, and the number and felicity 
of his bon mots. Encyclopaedia Americana, Vol. X. 
p. 56. Mr. Peters subscribed jC5,000 for supplying 
the army in 17S0. 

William Bingham was a native of Philadelphia, and 
a gentleman of great wealth and influence. During 
the American war he was prize agent for Pennsyl- 
vania, in the island of Martinique. In 1786, he re- 
presented Philadelphia in Congress, and in 1795 suc- 
ceeded Robert Morris as senator. Mr. Bingham 
married Miss Willing, one of the most beautiful wo- 
men of America, by whom he had several children, 
one of whom married Mr. Baring of England, now 
Lord Ashburton. The statue of Franklin, over the 
entrance of the Philadelphia Library, was presented 
to the company, by Mr. Bingham. 

He was a gentleman of liberality and intelligence. 
He subscribed ^5,000 in 1780, to supply the army* 



( 59 ) 

He resided in the house now known as the " Mansion 
House Hotel," in South Third street. He died in 
England, in 1804, aged 52. 

Colonel Thomas Lloyd Moore, a native of Pennsyl- 
vania, son of Gov. Moore of the province, who was 
a frequent guest at the dinners of the society. Thos. 
L. Moore was a colonel in the American army. He 
was a gentleman of high breeding and fine manners, 
and fond of social enjoyments. He was father of 
Mrs. Richard M. Willing, and grandfather of Thos. 
Moore Willing, Esq., of Philadelphia. 



SECTION V. 



SKETCHES OF OTHER MEMBERS. 

Isaac Ml, or Jluld, was captain of a merchant ves- 
sel, belonging to Mease and Caldwell, which traded 
between Philadelphia and France, after the war. He 
seems to have been in London in September, 1783, 
and was charged by the society with bringing from 
thence as many gold medals for the members as he 
could procure for 439 livres Tournois. He was an 
amiable man, and mucii esteemed by his friends. 

John Barclay was a native of Ireland, a shipping 
merchant, and for many years president of the bank 
of Pennsylvania. He was mayor of Philadelphia in 
1791, and remained in the city during the whole time 
that the yellow fever raged there, in 1793, attending 



( 60 ) 

to his duty and business^ and escaped the fever. He 
was one of the First Troop of City Cavalry. A man 
of very handsome manners, father-in-law of Mr. 
Clement Biddle. 

Thomas Barclay, an original member. See ante. 

William Barclay, a native of Ireland, and merchant 
of Philadelphia. He was on board of the Shilelab, 
which sailed for France from the capes of the Dela- 
ware after the war, and was never heard of. 

John Barry was the first commodore of the Ame- 
rican navy. He was born in the county of Wexford, 
Ireland, in 1745.* In February, 17S1, he sailed in 
the frigate Alliance, from Boston to L'Orient, car- 
rying Colonel Laurens on an embassy to the French 
court. He sailed again from Boston, in the same 
vessel, and carried La Fayette and the Count de 
Nouailes to France. It is related that Gen. Howe, at 
one period, attempted to bribe him to desert the cause 
of America, by the promise of 15,000 guineas, and 
the command of a British frigate, and that the ofier 
was rejected with disdain. Commodore Barry served 
from the commencement to the close of the war, and 
was engaged in several actions with distinguished 
success. His exertions contributed in no small de- 
gree to the success of the revolution. He enjoyed 

* Mr. Barry entered the merchant service in early life, as 
captain of a ship owned by Reese Meredith, (father of Samuel 
Meredith, one of the honorary members of this society,) with 
whom he was a great favourite. General Washington, on his 
visits to Philadelphia, always staid at Mr. Reese Meredith's 
house, and thus became acquainted with Captain Barry anti 
his abilities. 



( 61 ) 

the entire confidence of General Washington, from 
whom he, more than once, received a public expres- 
sion of thanks. He died at Philadelphia in 1803, 
aged 58, after a life of usefulness and honour. This 
estimable man was about the ordinary stature; his 
person was graceful and commanding; his whole de- 
portment was marked by dignity, unmixed with os- 
tentation; and his strongly-marked countenance ex- 
pressed the qualities of his mind, and the virtues of 
his heart. The late Commodore Dale was a favourite 
protege of Commodqre Barry. (Encyc. Am.) 

Captain Thomas Bait was for some time vice-pre- 
sident of the society; a retired half-pay officer of the 
British army, and a man of highly respectable cha- 
racter. Having attached himself to the Tory party 
at the commencement of the revolution, he was ex- 
pelled from the society for his outrageous loyalty. 
{See Minutes.) 

Colonel Ephraim Blaine, a native of Ireland, who 
had settled in Carlisle. He became a quarter-master 
in the American army during the war, and was well 
known in the interior of the State for his patriotic 
exertions in the cause of the American revolution. 

John Bleakly was a native of Philadelphia. His 
father was born in the north of Ireland, and amassed 
a large fortune in America, which was mostly inhe- 
rited by his son John. Mr. Bleakly was a gentle- 
man of liberal education and great accomplishments. 
He was one of the few young Americans of the time 
whose fortune permitted them to travel in Europe. 
After spending some years abroad, he returned to 



( 62 ) 

America, and died in Philadelphia about the year 
1803. He was distinguished for his benevolence, 
and his zeal in the promotion of all literary objects. 
Being disappointed in love, he never married. He 
left a large estate, and among other charitable be- 
quests, he left to the corporation of Philadelphia 
cjCl,000, as a fund to procure fuel during the winter 
season, for poor house-keepers, widows — and ^1,000 
as a fund to relieve those who may be reduced to the 
necessity of being placed in the hospital during the 
existence of the yellow fever, both of which bequests 
were paid into the city treasury in 1804. The former 
bequest, with Mr. Girard's of ^10,000, for a similar 
purpose, yields much relief to many of the poor of 
Philadelphia every winter. The yellow fever fund 
was paid over to the managers of Wills' Hospital, 
under the authority of an act of Assembly, passed 
April 16, 1S3S. 

John Boyle was a native of the north of Ireland, 
and pursued the linen business in Philadelphia. He 
was an original member of the First Troop, of re- 
markably social habits, and much esteemed. 

John Brown, a native of Ireland, accomplished in 
all gentlemanly tastes, came to America in early life, 
was engaged in the counting-house of Robert Morris, 
and was secretary of the board of war during the revo- 
lution. He enjoyed the confidence of all the distin- 
guished public men of the time, and amassed a large 
fortune in trade. Some of his acquaintances speak 
of him as having contributed liberally to the neces- 
sities of his early friends. He died in Philadelphia 
a few years since. He was one of the founders, and 



( 63 ) 

his nephew, Mr. John Brown Parker, is now a mem- 
ber of the Hibernian society. 

Col Richard Butler was born in Pennsylvania, of 
Irish parents. He was one of five brothers, all dis- 
tinguished officers in the American army of the re- 
volution. He distinguished himself on frequent oc- 
casions during the war, particularly at Stony Point, 
and Saratoga. He rose to the rank of Major General. 
He was second in command in the expedition under 
General St. Clair, against the Indians, in 1791, and 
was killed at the battle of the 4th of November, at 
the defeat of St. Clair. Two of his brothers fought 
desperately in the same battle. The Indian chief, 
Little Turtle, afterwards boasted of having toma- 
hawked General Butler at that battle, having found 
him wounded, leaning against a tree. He was a mem- 
ber of the society of the Cincinnati. Honourable 
mention is made of General Butler in Marshall's Life 
of Washington. The Butlers are a branch of the 
family of the dukes of Ormond. 

Andrew Caldwell, an original member. See ante. 

David Caldwell, son of Samuel Caldwell, already 
referred to among the original members, — succeeded 
his father in the office of clerk of the District Court 
of the United States, and continued in it until his re- 
signation in October 6, 1831, the forty-second an- 
niversary of the original appointment of his father 
as Mr. Caldwell remarks in his letter of resignation, 
addressed to the late Judge Joseph Hopkinson, son 
of Judge Francis Hopkinson, who had appointed his 
father. The reply to this letter of resignation, is 
highly honourable to the two fathers and the tvv(^ 



I'k 



{ 64 ) 

sons. «I reciprocate," says Judge Hopkinson, ^^most 
truly your expressions of aifection and respect. Our 
intimacy commenced in our childhood, and was the 
growth of the friendship that subsisted between our 
fathers. I think we may now say that it is not 
likely to be interrupted during our lives." Speaking 
of the estimation in which Mr. Caldwell was held by 
the bar, he says, "You know how much they esteem 
you, and how highly they value your services, as well 
as the liberal and courteous manner in which they 
have always been rendered." The members of the 
bar presented him with a silver cup, on his leaving 
his office, as a testimonial of their esteem and regard, 
and of appreciation of his long and valuable services 
to the profession. Mr. Caldwell, at his death, left a 
widow and some children. One of his daughters 
married Dr. Bradford of Philadelphia. It is to Mrs. 
Caldwell and the good offices of Francis Hopkinson, 
Esq., that the Hibernian Society are indebted for the 
rules, minutes, &c., of the society of the Friendly 
Sons of St. Patrick — a donation which led to the pre- 
paration of this work, by order of that society. Mr. 
Caldwell's long life of usefulness and unsullied inte- 
grity won for him the esteem of all who knew him, 
and that chief earthly reward of a well spent life, "a 
conscience void of offence towards God, and towards 
man." 

James Caldwell — a merchant of Philadelphia, and 
a member of the First Troop of Cavalry. He was a 
very amiable man, and remarkably handsome. He 
died soon after the war. Mrs. Kepley of Philadel- 
phia is his daughter. He subscribed i^2,000 in 1780, 



( 65 ) 

for the supply of the American army. He was an 
original member of the Hibernian Society. 

John Caldwell, a native of Philadelphia, whose pa- 
rents were Irish. He was by profession a lawyer — 
for a time first clerk in the war department, and 
afterwards removed to Baltimore. 

Samuel Caldwell, one of the original members. See 
ante. 

George Campbell, an original member. See ante. 

James Campbell, a native of the north of Ireland. 
He was a worthy, honest, much esteemed man, and 
died of the yellow fever in 1797. He was a shipping 
merchant in company with the late Stephen Kingston, 
under the firm of Campbell and Kingston. His only 
child married Captain John Donnaldson. He was an 
original member of the Hibernian Society. 

Samuel Carson, a native of Ireland, and a very ex- 
tensive shipping merchant of Philadelphia. He left 
a large fortune. Some of his descendants still reside 
in Philadelphia, among them Dr. Carson. 

Daniel Clark, a native of Ireland — well known in 
Philadelphia in early life. A man of superior energy 
and business talents, and of high honour and integrity. 
He was for some time a merchant in this city, but 
removed to Natchez after the war, where he died, 
after having amassed a large fortune. His house was 
the scene of liberal hospitality. His nephew, Daniel 
Clark, was formerly a member of Congress from 
New Orleans. 

Dr. John Cochran, a native of Chester county, 
Pennsylvania. He was a surgeon in the American 
army of the revolution. He settled in the state of 
7 



( 66 ) 

New York after the war, where he held an office 
under the general government until his death. 

Dr. Cochran was beloved and esteemed at head 
quarters, and among all the officers of the army, and 
members of Congress. He married into the Schuyler 
family of New York. The Cochran family furnished 
to Chester county and to the several departments of 
the United States government, many of their most 
valuable and respectable officers. 

James Collins was a native of the south of Ireland, 
a dry goods merchant, and partner of Capt. Truxton 
of the navy. The firm was Collins and Truxton. 
Mr. Collins was a member of the Legislature from 
Berks county, Pennsylvania, and a gentleman distin- 
guished by his polite and affiible manners. 

William Constable was a partner of Robert Morris 
in New York, and married in the White family there. 
He was an elegant and accomplished man. His fa- 
mily is now in New York, and connected with the 
M'Vicar and other highly respectable families of that 
city. 

David Hayjield Conyngham, a highly respectable 
gentleman, and very extensive merchant, a native of 
the north of Ireland. He was an original member 
of the First Troop of City Cavalry. He was a partner 
of J. M. Nesbitt and Co., and Conyngham and Nes- 
bitt, already referred to. Mr. Conyngham died a few 
years ago, in the eighty-fifth year of his age. One 
of his sons, Mr. Nesbitt Conyngham, resides in Lan- 
caster, and another is a judge at Wilksbarre. Mr. 
Conyngham was a relative of the famous Commo- 



( 67 ) 

dore Gustavus Conyngham, a native of the county 
Donegal, Ireland. 

James Crawford, a native of Ireland, and eminent 
shipping merchant, trading under the firms of Haines 
and Crawford, and James Crawford and Co. He 
was an ardent friend to the cause of American free- 
dom, and one of the founders of the First Troop and 
of the Hibernian Society. After the war, he traded 
to the West Indies, and became an insurance broker 
in company with John Donnaldson. He was ruined 
by the plunder of Lord Rodney at St. Eustatius. 

George Davis, an original member. 

Sharp Delany, a native of the County Monaghan, 
Ireland, was a druggist in Philadelphia, before the 
war. He was a member of the Legislature, and an 
honorary member of the Society of the Cincinnati. 
General Washington appointed him Collector of the 
Port of Philadelphia, which office he held until his 
death. One of his daughters is still living. He was 
an active member of the Committee of Merchants, 
of Philadelphia, prior to the establishment of the 
Federal Constitution, in preparing the measures, 
(which were afterwards carried into effect,) for the 
regulation of commerce. He enjoyed the friendship 
and confidence of all the public men of the day. He 
subscribed ^5,000 to supply the army in 1780, and 
was an original member of the Hibernian Society. 

John Donnaldson, the son of Hugh Donnaldson, a 
native of Dunganncn, who emigrated to America 
early, and married in Philadelphia. John Donnald- 
son was an enterprising man, and useful citizen, a 
member of the First City Troop. He was, for many 



( 68 ) 

years, Register and Controller of the State, through 
many administrations, and died in the year 1831. He 
left a large family, many of them still living, and 
well known in Philadelphia. He subscribed ^62,000 
for supplying the American army with provisions in 
1780. 

John Dunlap was born in Strabane, County of 
Tyrone, Ireland, in 1746. He emigrated at an early 
age to America, settling in Philadelphia, where, like 
Franklin, he became a printer, and by his industry 
and enterprise, one of the most extensive in the 
country. In Nov., 1771, he issued in Philadelphia the 
first number of the Pennsylvania Packet, or General 
Advertiser. From Sept., 1777, to July, 1778, whilst 
the British were in possession of Philadelphia, this 
newspaper was printed in Lancaster. From 1784, 
it was published daily, being the first daily paper 
printed in the United States. It was afterwards 
transferred to Mr. Poulson, and continued to be pub- 
lished until a few years ago. Mr. Dunlap was printer 
to the Convention which met in Philadelphia before 
the Revolution, and also to Congress, and was the 
first person who printed and published to the world 
" The Declaration of Independence.'' Thus an Irish- 
man, Charles Thompson, Secretary of Congress, first 
prepared this immortal document for publication, 
from the rough draft of Jefierson: the son of an Irish- 
man, Colonel Nixon, as already mentioned, had the 
honour of first publicly announcing and reading it 
from the State House; a third Irishman, Mr. Dunlap, 
first printed and published it to the world, whilst 
hosts of Irishmen contributed their property and 



( 69 ) 

their lives to sustain and establish it. Mr. Dunlap 
was one of the original members of the First Troop 
of Philadelphia Cavalry, and served as Cornet in it 
with distinction during the war. 

He afterwards became Captain of the Troop, and 
commanded the right wing of the army against 
the insurgents, in Western Pennsylvania, with the 
rank of Major, under the United States, which has 
been already referred to in alluding to the First 
Troop. By his talents and industry, he amassed a 
large fortune. He purchased from the State of Vir- 
ginia 98,000 acres of land, in Meade, and the adjoin- 
ing counties of Kentucky, much of which is still in 
the possession of his descendants. He also owned 
the lands on w^hich Utica, Indiana, is now built. 
The square of ground between Chestnut and Market, 
and Eleventh and Twelfth Streets, now part of the 
estate of the late Stephen Girard, belonged to Mr. 
Dunlap, as did the greater part of the ground on 
Chestnut Street, between Twelfth and Thirteenth 
Streets. He died on the 27th Nov., 1812, in the 
66th year of his age, and was buried with all the 
honours of war. He left several children. One of 
his daughters married the late Dr. Bleight, whose 
son, John D. Bleight, Esq., is a member of the bar of 
Philadelphia, — another is Dr. Samuel Bleight, and 
their sister, Mrs. Hazlehurst, now resides in Ken- 
tucky. Mr. Dunlap subscribed ^64,000 in 1780, to 
supply provisions for the American army. 

T/ios. Fitzsbnmons, an original member — See ante. 

Tench Francis, do do do 

Turbult Francis, do do do 

7* 



( 70 ) 

Benjamin Fuller, an original member — See ante. 

George Fidlerlon, do do do 

Archibald Gamble was Professor of Oratory and 
Classics, in the University of Pennsylvania, and 
greatly beloved by the students. He was from 
Chester County, Pennsylvania, or the adjoining Dis- 
trict of Maryland. He was a self-made man, — one of 
the early political writers, and generally supposed 
to have been the author of some of the most able 
political tracts published in Pennsylvania, between 
the years 17S0-S5. He was father of the late Thos. 
Gamble, Esq., formerly American Consul at St. 
Thomas, and Aid-de-camp to Von Sholten, the Da- 
nish Governor of the Island. 

Robert Gray was the son of George Gray, a native 
of Ireland. His father was owner of Gray's Ferry, 
and for many years Speaker of the House of Repre- 
sentatives of Pennsylvania. Though of a Quaker 
family, Mr. Robert Gray was a bon vivant. 

Captain John Green was the commander of a mer- 
chant ship. He had the honour of commanding the 
ship Empress, burden 360 tons, on her voyage from 
New York to Canton, in 1784, in the first voyage 
made to China by any vessel from the United States. 
He sailed Feb. 22, 1784, and returned May 11th, 
1785. An account of the friendly reception of this 
vessel by the Chinese merchants, and the several 
commodores of the European nations, then at Can- 
ton, may be found in Hazard's Register of Pennsyl- 
vania, vol. I. p. 284. 

General Edward Hand, one of the most distin- 
guished officers of the American Army of the Revo- 



( 71 ) 

lution, so high in the confidence of General Wash- 
ington, as to be called one of his right-hand men. 
He studied medicine under Dr. Rush, and resided at 
Lancaster, Pa. He distinguished himself in many of 
the battles of the Revolution, and was intrusted with 
the management of some of the most difficult and im- 
portant enterprises. He was one of the original 
members of the Cincinnati. It is to be regretted 
that no adequate biography of this most eminent 
man has yet been published, but it is understood his 
memoirs are now preparing for publication by a gen- 
tleman of Philadelphia. 

James Hawthorn, a native of Ireland, was a re- 
spectable dry goods merchant of Philadelphia. 

Charles Heatly was a gentleman of fortune and 
barrister, in Ireland. He was compelled to leave his 
native country and his estate, on account of some pa- 
triotic effort, whereby his zeal had exposed him to ihe 
malignity of the government. He practised law for 
many years in Philadelphia, and was highly esteemed 
for his integrity, conviviality, and many amiable 
qualities. His name occurs occasionally in Dallas' 
Reports. He was one of the founders of the Hiber- 
nian Societ3^ His vvit,likea sharp and highly polished 
sword, whilst it pierced without effort, left behind 
no clumsy gashes or incurable wounds. As a speci- 
men, not so much of Mr. Heatly's wit, as of the 
manner in which the Philadelphia lawyers of the 
last century hit each other, the following anecdote 
may be related. A certain caustic veteran of the 
bar was remarkable for his skill in spinning the 
thinnest legal cobwebs, and for possessing the thinnest 



( 72 ) 

pair of legs, of any man in the community, legs, 
which Mr. Heatly frequently referred to under the 
appellation of "spindle shanks." In a certain en- 
counter at the bar, Mr. H. ridiculed with a good deal 
of effect, the tenuity of his learned friend's distinc- 
tions, who retorted sharply, saying, " that the inabi- 
lity of his adversary to comprehend his distinctions 
was not owing to the thinness of the argument, but 
the thickness of his (Mr. H's.) skull." Heatly me- 
ditated revenge, and next morning having procured 
the longest and thinnest pair of eels to be found in 
the fish market, had the skins scientifically stitched 
together and carefully enveloped in a sheet of letter 
paper, which on opening in court the old lawyer 
discovered to the great amusement of their surround- 
ing friends, what Mr. Heatly, in his complimentary 
note, begged to present to him as a ^'pattern for a pair 
of breeches.^' 

George Henry vvas a native of Ireland, and ship- 
ping merchant in Philadelphia. 

Hugh Holmes, a native of Ireland, a merchant and 
partner of Robert Rainey, in the firm of Holmes and 
Rainey. He was amiable, sociable, good-tempered, 
and a bon vivant. He was one of the founders, and 
afterwards for many years the President of the Hi- 
bernian Society. 

George Hughes, a native of Ireland, was a dry goods 
merchant of Philadelphia, a member of the 1st Troop, 
and the first cashier of the Bank of Pennsylvania, 
which office he held until his death. Mr. Hughes 
was a bon vivant, very amiable, and a great favourite 
with all who knew him. He was one of the origi- 
nal members of the Hibernian Society. 



( 73 ) 

Colonel Francis Johnston was born at New London 
Cross Roads in Chester county, Pa. He was a gal- 
lant officer during the war,through the whole of which 
he served with great distinction. He was the face- 
tious secretary of the fishing club before the war, a 
member of the city troop, and after the war a mem- 
ber of the Cincinnati. He also served as sheriff of 
the City and County of Philadelphia, and was ap- 
pointed by the general government a commissioner 
to treat with the Indians in 1784, when the treaty of 
Fort Stan wix was executed. His son, Alexander John- 
ston, still resides in Philadelphia, and his grandson,W. 
P. Johnston. — Col. Johnston was one of the founders 
of the Hibernian Society. 

William Irvine, a Brigadier General in the Re- 
volutionary army, was born in Ireland, educated for 
the profession of medicine, and served for some 
time as surgeon on board a British ship of war, after- 
wards removed to America, and settled as a physi- 
cian at Carlisle, Pennsylvania. In January, 1776, he 
was authorized to raise and command a regiment of 
the Pennsylvania line, which in a few months after- 
wards he fully equipped. He fought in company 
with General Wayne, under General Thompson 
(both also members of this Society) in Canada, 
was taken prisoner and detained nearly two years. 
After his release he was promoted and intrusted with 
the defence of the north-western frontier, which was 
threatened by the British and Indians; a charge not 
only requiring courage and firmness, but great pru- 
dence and judgment, and which was executed in a 
manner which fully justified the choice of General 
Washington. He was a member of Congress under 



( 74 ) 

the confederation, and a member of the convention 
which framed the constitution of Pennsylvania. Af- 
ter the war he removed, with his family, from Car- 
lisle to Philadelphia, where he became intendant of 
military stores, and president of tiie Pennsylvania 
society of Cincinnati. He continued to reside in 
Philadelphia, universally respected for his public and 
private virtues, until the summer of 1804, when he 
died in the 63d year of his age. His son, the late 
Callender Irvine, Esq., succeeded him in the office 
of Commissary General, which he held till the time 
of his death. He inherited all the virtues of his fa- 
ther, and was for many years vice president of the 
Hibernian Society. 

Major General H. Y. Knox was born in Boston, of 
Irish parents, though of Scotch descent, in 1750. 
He was actively engaged, and greatly distinguished 
throughout the whole Revolutionary contest, and was 
Secretary at war and of the navy, under General 
Washington, until 1794, when, after serving his coun- 
try for nearly twenty years, he retired from public 
life, and was declared by Washington to have "de- 
served well of his country." General Knox was 
celebrated for his amiable manners and convivial qua- 
lities. He died in 1806, aged fifty-six. 

George Latimer was a native of Delaware, born of 
Irish parents. He was a commission merchant — and 
for some years Speaker of the assembly in Pennsyl- 
vania. He was afterwards appointed Collector of the 
Port of Philadelphia. He was a man of high re- 
spectability, very benevolent and charitable. Mr, L. 
was one of the founders of the Hibernian Society. 



( 75 ) 

Thomas Lea was a native of Dublin, Ireland. 
He was a shipping merchant of Philadelphia, count- 
ing house in Front near Arch Street. He married 
a daughter of Chief Justice Shippen; was an origi- 
nal member of the Hibernian Society, — and a high- 
ly respectable and accomplished gentleman of the 
old school. 

John Leamy was a native of Ireland, and a Roman 
Catholic. He came to America after the war, from 
Spain, where he had been residing for some years. 
He was long an eminent merchant of Philadelphia, 
and a gentleman of high respectability. He was one 
of the original members of the Hibernian Society. 
Mr. Leamy had much of the true Irishman in him. 
Prompt, active and energetic in business, he possessed 
much of that generosity and liberality which it seems 
unnatural to find wanting in any of his countrymen. 
He died about eight years ago. He was for many 
years president of the Marine Insurance Company 
of Philadelphia. 

James Logan was a native of Philadelphia, son of 
the celebrated James Logan, a native of Lurgan, in 
the north of Ireland, the confidential adviser and tried 
friend of William Penn, and the munificent founder 
of the Loganian Library. The subject of this no- 
tice belonged to the Society of Friends, as well as the 
Society of Friendly Sons. He was a gentleman of great 
vveath and respectability. He died unmarried. 

Many of the Logan family or blood still reside in 
or near Philadelphia. Dr. Albanus Logan, who re- 
sides near Germantown, retains so much of his great 
ancestor in his person and deportment, that he might 



( 76 ) 

be mistaken for a true Irish gentleman, as he is in 
reality a true American gentleman. 

Ulyssus Lynch, an original member. 

Blair M'Clenachan was a native of Ireland. He 
was in business in Philadelphia before the Revolu- 
tion, but, on the breaking out of the war, engaged in 
privateering, in which he was very successful, accu- 
mulating much wealth, and living in good style. He 
was most ardent and devoted to the the cause of liber- 
ty, and one of the founders of the first troop of Phi- 
ladelphia city cavalry, in which he served during the 
war. He co-operated most liberally in all the patri- 
otic exertions and schemes of Robert Morris, and his 
compatriots in urging on, sustaining, and establish- 
ing the cause of American freedom. He subscribed 
£10,000 in 1780 to supply the starving army, and on 
various occasions aided Congress by his money, and 
his credit, and suffered much thereby in a pecuniary 
way, though repaid by the approbation of the whole 
country, and the triumph of the cause. After the 
war he engaged largely in various mercantile opera- 
tions, and was an extensive ship owner. His specu- 
lations resulted in his embarrassment, and, like his 
great friend Robert Morris, in his incarceration. Mr. 
M^Clenachan had a large family. One of his daugh- 
ters married General Walter Stewart. Some of his 
descendants are living in Philadelphia. His grand- 
daughter married Thomas Penn Gaskill, Esq., of Phi- 
ladelphia, now a member of the Hibernian Society. 
Mr. M'Clenachan had much of the quickness, promp- 
titude, and warmth of temperament which character- 
sizes Irihmen, and his generosity, patriotism, and 



( 77) 

self sacrifices in the cause of his adopted country 
ought not soon to be forgotten by Americans. After 
the war he had for his partner in business Patrick 
Moore, a member of the Society of the Friendly Sons 
of St. Patrick, and an original member of the Hiber- 
nian Society. In local politics Mr. M'Clenachan 
belonged to the party who so much disapproved 
the provisions of "Jay's Treaty," and so warmly op- 
posed its ratification. When asked what he would do 

with it, he indignantly replied, "kick it to , sir;" 

whereupon the opposite party immediately issued a 
laughable caricature, well remembered by many citi- 
zens of the present day, representing Mr. M'C. in 
the act of kicking the treaty to the dominions of his 
Satanic Majesty. 

He died at Philadelphia, and was interred in the 
grave-yard of St. Paul's Church, in Third Street. 

George Meade, an original member. See ante. 

James Moore was an officer in the American army 
during the war, and afterwards a druggist in Phila- 
delphia. 

Patrick Moore, partner of Blair M'Clenachan, an 
extensive merchant and ship owner, and an original 
member of the Hibernian Society. 

James Moylan, brother of General Stephen Moylan 
and Jasper Moylan. 

Jasper Moylan was a native of the south of Ireland, 
brother of General Stephen Moylan. He practised 
law in Philadelphia for many years, and was a gen- 
tleman of high breeding, great wit, and a hon vivanU 
Mr. Moylan was a member of the First Troop, and 
accompanied it in the Northampton expedition of 
8 



( vs ) 

1799. He is represented by those who remember 
him at the bar as being a lawyer of more soundnesg 
than brilliancy, and enjoying an extensive practice. 
His name occurs frequently in the Pennsylvania 
reports. He died about the year 1811. Several of 
his grandchildren are still living. Robert Walsh, Esq. 
(now of Paris, France) married his only child. He 
was an original member of the Hibernian Society. 

John Moylan, brother of the preceding, was a 
Quarter Master in the American army. He was 
lost in the Shilelah on her voyage to France after 
the war. 

Stephen JlJoylan, an original member. See ante. 

John Murray, one of the firm, Bunner, Murray, 
and Co., dry goods merchants of Philadelphia. His 
firm subscribed £6,000 for the supply of the army 
in 1780. 

J. J)L J^esbitt, an original member. See ante. 

Alexander Jfeshitl, a highly respectable dry goods 
merchant, partner of Generat Walter Stewart. He 
was a member of the First City Troop. 

Colonel Francis JVichols, an officer in the army of 
the revolution, appointed by General Washington the 
first marshall of the district of Pennsylvania. He 
was a member of the Cincinnatti, and a member of 
Congress. He died at Norristown some years ago. 

John J^ixon, an original member. See ante. 

Michael Morgan O'Brien, was a native of Ireland, 
a merchant and bon vivant. He married the widow 
of Wm. Bingham, Esq., a lady of large fortune. He 
was for some years consul at Algiers, and died in 
France, about the year 1804. He was an original 
member of the Hibernian Society. 



( 79 ) 

Colonel John Palton, a native of Ireland, served 
with great gallantry in the Pennsylvania line during 
the whole war. He was afterwards an auctioneer in 
Philadelphia, in partnership with General St. Clair. 
He was a large, fine-looking man. He moved to 
Northumberland county, where he died. Colonel 
Patton subscribed ^2,000 to supply the American 
army, in 1780. 

John Patterson, an original member of the Hiber- 
nian Society. 

Oliver Pollock, a native of Ireland, settled in New 
Orleans before the American revolution, where he 
amassed a large fortune in mercantile business. New 
Orleans then belonged to the Spaniards, who, at the 
commencement of the war, took no part in favour 
of the colonies. This did not prevent Mr. Pollock 
from rendering efficient services to the cause of 
liberty, which he ardently embraced. He had an 
opportunity of showing his sentiments on the fol- 
lowing occasion. Colonel Gibson of Pittsburgh, 
father of Chief Justice Gibson of Pennsylvania, un- 
dertook a most arduous and perilous journey to New 
Orleans by order of the Governor of Virginia, to 
purchase gunpowder for the American army. The 
Spanish authorities could not openly sanction this 
transaction, but through the good offices, tact, and 
influence of Mr. Pollock, the gunpowder was pur- 
chased, and shipped to Philadelphia. In the journals 
of Congress* is a notice of a bill of exchange drawn 
by Oliver Pollock, at New Orleans, on Congress, for 
six thousand one hundred and forty-six dollars, and 
duly accepted, which doubtless was to reimburse him 
* See Journals of Congress, Vol. VI. p. 244. 



( so ) 

for this purchase. It is worthy to mention here, 
as an instance of the hardships, dangers, and sacrifices 
which the patriots of the revolution cheerfully en- 
countered, that Colonel Gibson returned from New 
Orleans to Pittsburgh on foot through regions either 
altogether uninhabited by man, or inhabited only 
by Indians, many of them hostile.* Towards the end 
of the war we find Mr. Pollock attending the meet- 
ings of the Friendly Sons of St. Patrick, of which 
he became a member, June 17, 1783. He after- 
wards settled in Carlisle, Pennsylvania. He was an 
original member of the Hibernian Society. 

Robert Rainey vvas a native of Ireland, and partner 
with Hugh Holmes, (also a member of this society,) 
in the house of Holmes and Rainey, largely engaged 
in the Irish linen trade. He was an amiable and 
worthy man. He married Miss Kepley of Phila- 
delphia, and was one of the founders of the Hiber- 
nian Society. 

Captain Thomas Read was commander of the 
Alliance frigate, turned into a merchantman after the 
war, and owned by Robert Morris. He was the 
fourth Captain who sailed to China after the cessa- 
tion of hostilities. He made the voyage by a new 
route; sailed in June, 1787, and returned in 1788. 
He died at Bordentown, New Jersey. Mrs. Read 
was the grandmother of Captain Stockton of the 
United States Navy. 

Thos. Robinson was a native of the north of Ireland, 
and emigrated to America before the war of the 
Revolution. He served with distinction during that 
struggle, and rose to the rank of Brigadier General. 

* See an account of this expedition in Rogers' Am. Biog» 
Diet. tit. Gibson. — last edition, 8vo. 



( SI ) 

A branch of the Robinson family still resides at 
Naaman's Creek, Delaware County, the residence of 
General Robinson: and his son, Thomas Robinson, 
Esq., now lives in Philadelphia. General Robinson 
was one of the first American officers who visited 
England after the war of independence, and appear- 
ing in Drury Lane Theatre in his full uniform, was 
received by the audience with loud cheers. A few 
moments afterwards, another officer entered an ad- 
joining box in British uniform, and was greeted by 
the audience with hisses and groans. That officer 
was General Arnold. General Robinson was bro- 
ther-in-law of General Antony Wayne. 

General John Shee, an original member. See ante. 

Doctor Hugh Shiell, a native of Ireland, and a gra- 
duate of Edinburgh. He emigrated near the com- 
mencement of the Revolutionary war, and practised 
medicine for some time in Philadelphia. Afterwards 
he removed to Kentucky, and was drowned in cross- 
ing a river: — a man of education, good humour, and 
of very handsome manners. Mr. Crittenden of the 
United States Senate, and Mr. Boswell of Louisville, 
Kentucky, married in the family of Dr. Shiell. Dr. 
Shiell subscribed ,£5,000, to supply the American 
army with provisions in 1780. 

General Walter Stewart, an Irishman, from Lon- 
donderry. He came to America very young, en- 
tered the regular army, and, about the age of twenty- 
one, was appointed a Colonel of Jnfantry, to the 
great annoyance of many native American officers of 
greater age and longer standing. He was called 
" the boy Colonel.'^ His conduct justified the choice, 
8* 



(82 ) 

and he rose to the rank of Brigadier General. Ge- 
neral Stewart was remarkable for his beauty and ele- 
gant manners. He married the daughter of Blair 
M'Clenachan before noticed, and was an original 
member of the Hibernian Society. 

General William Thompson was a native of the 
north of Ireland, emigrated to America before the 
Revolution, and settled in Carlisle. He accompa- 
nied Montgomery in his expedition against Quebec, 
was promoted to the rank of General, and commanded 
the American forces at the battle of Trois Rivieres, 
in Canada, June, 1776. Wayne and Irvine served 
under him in that engagement, and Generals Thomp- 
son and Irvine were taken prisoners. They were 
afterwards exchanged, and served during the re- 
mainder of the war. General Thompson died soon 
after its conclusion. His courage was of the most 
fiery and chivalrous character, and his patriotism 
equal to his courage. 

George Washington, Commander in chief of the 
armies of America, in the war in which her inde- 
pendence was achieved. First President of the 
United States, "first in war, first in peace, and first 
in the hearts of his countrymen " — " the greatest 
man that ever lived in the tide of times — we ne'er 
shall look upon his like again." These descriptions 
of Washington are trite, but true. They are admit- 
ted even by the enemies of America. Frederick the 
Great of Prussia, no mean judge of military talents, 
pronounced him " the greatest general of his age," 
and Lord Brougham, a high authority in such cases, 
has declared him " the wisest of statesmen.'' All 



(83 ) 

that need be said here is, that during the war of the 
Revolution, he received the most valuable aid from 
Irishmen, both as privates and officers, and ever ac- 
knowledged and appreciated their services. If the 
Irishmen who fought under him, and with him, 
during the war, or contributed their fortunes and 
influence to promote its success, had not espoused the 
cause of the liberties of America, the country might 
now, perhaps, be in a very different condition to 
what it is. Washington made no distinction of na- 
tions in conferring honours on merit, — and hence his 
Irish troops adored him, and he loved them in re- 
turn. Nothing can be said at this time to add lustre 
to the character of Washington, or more widely dis- 
seminate his fame. From 1780, until he finally left 
Philadelphia, — he frequently attended the festivities 
of the Friendly Sons of St. Patrick, of which he was 
an adopted member, very many of the members be- 
ing his brethren in arms, and among his most inti- 
mate and confidential friends. 

Major General Antony Wayne was born of Irish 
parents, in Chester County, Pa., in 1746. His father 
emigrated from Ireland in 1722. He entered the 
army at the age of 29, and fought in Canada, in 
company with General William Irvine, under Ge- 
neral Thompson, (both also members of this soci- 
ety,) was actively engaged in the battles of Brandy- 
wine, Germantown, Monmouth, &c., and led the as- 
sault in the most desperate attack on Stony Point, at 
the head of his men at the point of the bayonet. He 
succeeded St. Clair in command of the forces sent 
against the Indians, and gained a complete victory 



(84) 

over them at the Miamis, August 20th, 1794. He 
died in 1796, at Presque Isle, aged 57, and was bu- 
ried on the shore of Lake Erie. General Wayne 
was sometimes called ^^ mad Antony," on account 
of his desperate valour. It would seem as if he had 
bitten many of his associates of the Friendly Sons; 
for the fighting members appear to have been seri- 
ously afiected by the same species of hydrophobia. 

John West, brother to Francis West, Jr., mentioned 
below. 

William West, an original member, see ante. 

Francis West, Jr., son of Wm. West, one of the ori- 
ginal members, and father of Dr. West, and of Captain 
West, (in the Liverpool trade) now of Philadelphia. 
The Hibernian Society obtained the long forgotten 
Records of this glorious old Society, on the I7t}i 
June, 1843, and twelve days afterwards Mr. West, 
the last surviving member of the '' Friendly Sons,*' 
descended to the grave full of years and honours. 

Had the " Friendly Sons of St. Patrick " desired 
to select a gentleman of their Society to transmit 
and illustrate to posterity, in his own character, all 
that was most amiable and honourable in theirs, they 
could not have found a more perfect representative 
than Francis West, Jr. 

No information has been obtained concerning the 
following members, namely: 

John West, Wm. Erskine, 

Ulysses Lynch, Robert Glen, 

Wm. Bourke, Alexander Holmes, 

Dr. Robert Boyd, John Mitchell, Jr, 

Henry Boyle, Henry Moore, 



( 85 ) 

William Broion, John Patterson, 

William Caldwell, Charles Stewart, 

John Connor, William West, Jr. 

John While, Joseph Wilson. 



SECTION VI. 



THE CONNEXION OF THE SOCIETY OF THE FRIENDLY 
SONS OF ST. PATRICK, WITH THE HIBERNIAN SOCI- 
ETY, AND THE ORIGIN OF THE LATTER. 

Some time after the conclusion of the revolutionary 
war, several members of the Society of the Friendly 
Sons of St. Patrick, in connexion with other bene- 
volent persons, formed the design of creating a 
society whose object should not be solely convivial, 
but which, whilst it would tend to keep up and che- 
rish that friendly and social intercourse, which ap- 
pears more natural to the Irish than to the people of 
any other nation, would at the same time give exercise 
to other traits not less prominent in their character, 
generosity, charity, and protection to the distressed. 
Of the immense numbers of the surplus population of 
Ireland, which oppression and constant increase cast 
every year on the shores of America, many on their 
arrival, were necessarily in destitute circumstances, 
A little assistance to them on their landing, and for 
some time afterwards, might enable them by industry 
and good conduct, to become prosperous men and 
useful citizens; — Whereas, if abandoned on their ar- 
rival, to mendicity or destitution, they might form 



(86 ) 

such associations and fall into such habits, as would 
lead them to ruin and degradation, and to become 
inhabitantseitherof the jail or alms-house. To carry 
those objects into effect, and to prevent these evils, 
was the original design in establishing the Hiber- 
nian Society, and it has been uniformly adhered to 
down to the present time. While the Society has 
ever been ready to afford advice and assistance to 
the poor and oppressed emigrant from Ireland, its 
members have not ceased to assemble together, at 
stated periods, for social enjoyment; and the celebra- 
tions of their quarterly and anniversary meetings 
have not been unworthy of the successors of the 
" Friendly Sons of St. Patrick." 

These members placed at their head the honourable 
Thomas M'Kean, the Chief Justice, and afterwards 
Governor of Pennsylvania, who had often enjoyed 
the hospitality of the Friendly Sons of St. Patrick. 
In conjunction with others, they formed themselves 
into a charitable association, under the name of 'The 
Hibernian Society, for the relief of emigrants from 
Ireland,' with a laudable view and intent (to use the 
words of the charter,) to aid and assist poor and op- 
pressed persons emigrating from Ireland into Penn- 
sylvania. The object appears to have met the cor- 
dial approbation of the authorities, and a charter of 
incorporation was granted to the Society on the 27th 
April, 1792, (signed by Governor Mifflin, who afore- 
time had frequently experienced the hospitality of 
the Society of the Friendly Sons of St. Patrick.) The 
preamble recites that "it is highly proper to promote 
the designs of the said Society, inasmuch as they ma}- 
greatly contribute to the strength and prosperity of 



( S7 ) 

this State, and of the United States, by encouraging 
emigration from Ireland." 

The names of seventeen members of the Society 
of the Friendly Sons of St. Patrick are specially enu- 
merated in the charter, namely, 
Brig. Gen. W. Stewart, — of whom see ante, p. 81 
JohnLeamy, " « « 75 

Patrick Moore, " « « 77 

Sharp' Delany, '' « " 67 

James Crawford, " « *« 67 

John Brown, " " « 67 

Michael Morgan O'Brien, " " « 78 
Oliver Pollock, « " " 79 

Thomas Lea, " " " 75 

John Maxwell Nesbitt, '' " " 75 

George Hughes, " " " 72 

Jasper Moylan, « " " 77 

George Meade, " " " 77 

James Campbell, " " " 65 

, Robert Rainey, " <* " 80 

Hugh Holmes, « « " 72 

Charles Heatly, « " " 71 

And five other members are found on the roll of 
the new society: namely, 

Richard Bache, — of whom see ante, p. 55 
James Caldwell, « " " p. 64 

Francis Johnston, " " " p. 73 

George Latimer, " " " p. 74 

John Patterson, " « " p. 79 

Though the glorious old Society of the Friendly 
Sons of St. Patrick no longer exists, the Hibernian 



(88) 

Society may boast of being its offspring — not alto- 
gether unworthy of such a parentage. It is true 
that the twenty-two members of the old society, who 
undertook the creation of the new, had views very 
different from the twenty-two who many years before 
formed the other surviving offspring of the Friendly 
Sons of St. Patrick, namely, the First Troop of Phi- 
ladelphia Cavalry,* (though several of them were the 
same men;) yet, perhaps, tlie Hibernian Society, in 
her long, though silent career of usefulness, might 
venture to oppose in friendly rivalry, its achieve- 
ments in the arts of peace, against the more brilliant 
achievements of her brother, the First City Troop, 
in deeds of war. Both have long survived their pa- 
rent, and both are still prepared, like that parent, to 
perform their duty faithfully whenever called on. 
The Hibernian Society is at present in the full tide 
of usefulness. Its funds amount to near $15,000, 
and are constantly increasing, the interest whereof 
is annually expended in carrying out the objects of 
the Society. 

Unlike its distinguished predecessor in one respect, 
the "Hibernian Society" embraces among its mem- 
bers, not only Irish, and the descendants of Irish, but 
those of other nations who desire to enjoy with them 
the pleasures of its convivial meetings, or extend the 
hand of kindness and protection to the needy and 
friendless emigrant from heland. On its roll of mem- 
bers of the past and present time, may therefore be 
found some of our most respectable and distinguished 
citizens, natives of France, Germany, England, and 
the United States. 

* See ante, p. 17. 



RULES, 



AN D 



EXTRACTS FEOM MINUTES 



RULES 



TO BE OBSERVED BY THE SOCIETY OF THE FRIENDLY SONS 
OF ST. PATRICK. 

Firsty That the society shall meet four times in the 
year, to wit, the 17th of March, the 17th of June, 
the 17th of September, and 17th of December. 

That public notice shall be given by the secretary, 
a week before the day of each meeting, and that the 
annual meeting shall be on the 17th of March. 

Second, That the meeting on the 17th of June shall 
be always considered a meeting of business. That no 
strangers can be admitted on that day. That the 
president and vice-president for the ensuing year be 
then elected by ballot, and that the president so 
elected shall, at any time before the next quarterly 
meeting, call a council, to consist of eight members, 
including the vice-president, treasurer, and secretary. 
Third, That each member shall furnish himself 
with a gold medal, of the value of three guineas, 
agreeable to the following description: — On the right, 
Hibernia; on the left, America; in the centre, 
Liberty joining the hands of Hibernia and Ame- 
rica, to be represented by the usual figures of a fe- 
male supported by a harp for Hibernia. An Indian 
with his quivers on his back, and his bow slung, for 
America. 



( 92 ) 

"Underneath, Unite. 

On the reverse, St. Patrick trampling on a snake, 
a cross in his hand, dressed in Pontificalibus. 

The motto Hiar. 

J\)mW/i, That any member, (residingin the province,) 
neglecting to appear with his medal, at the meeting 
on the 17th of March, shall forfeit the sum of 7s. 6d., 
and for such neglect at any of the other meetings, 
the sum of 5s., unless beyond sea, and that such fine, 
as well as all other fines, shall be paid into the hands 
of the treasurer. 

Fifth, That a number of honorary members, not 
exceeding ten, may be admitted. 

Sixth, That the descendants of Irish parents, by 
either side in the first degree, and the descendants of 
every member ad infinitum (honorary members ex- 
cepted,) shall have a natural right of application, to be 
admitted members of this society. 

Seventh, That the honorary members shall not have 
a privilege of voting on any occasion, neither shall 
they be subject to any fines whatsoever. 

Eighth, That any person desirous of becoming a 
member, shall signify his desire to the secretary, who 
is to give notice to each member ten days before the 
next quarterly meeting, mentioning the name of the 
person proposed, and that the said person so proposed 
shall be balloted for at the said meeting, and that at 
such elections three black balls shall exclude any 
candidate, and that there can be no election unless at 
a meeting of twelve or more members. 

J^inlhf That all fines shall be disposed of at the 
meeting of the 17th of June. 



( 93 ) 

Tenth, That each member shall have the privilege 
of asking a stranger at his own expense. That at the 
annual meeting, the President shall have the privilege 
of asking any number of strangers he may think pro- 
per in the name of the Society, at the expense of the 
members then met, but the strangers introduced by 
him at any other meeting (the Governor for the 
time being excepted) shall be at his own expense. 

Eleventh, That any member refusing to pay his 
fine, on or before the first meeting after such fine 
shall be imposed, shall be no longer considered a 
member, unless being again balloted for in the usual 
form. 

Twelfth, That a book shall be kept by the Secre- 
tary, containing fair minutes of the proceedings, sub- 
ject to the inspection of every member. 

Thirteenth, That each member be furnished with 
a copy of these rules, and that no person shall be 
considered a member until he has subscribed them. 



To these rules are attached the original signatures 
of members, both honorary and regular. 



( 94 ) 



EXTEACTS 

FROM THE MINUTES OF THE SOCIETY OF THE 
FRIENDLY SONS OF ST. PATRICK. 

At a meeting at Burns', on Tuesday, the 17th of 
September, 1771, 
Present, 
Stephen Moylan, President. 
John M. Nesbitt, Vice President. 
William Mitchell, Secretary and Treasurer. 
William West, John Nixon, 

Thomas Barclay, Thomas Fitzsimmons, 

John Mease, George Meade, 

Randle Mitchell, George Campbell, 

John Mitchell, Ulysses Lynch, 

Turbutt Francis, George Fallerton. 

Honorary Members. 
Henry Hill, James Searle. 

Mr. Moylan proposed John Cadwalader, Esq., as 
an honorary member, to be balloted for next meet- 
ing, of which the members met were desired to take 
notice. 



At a meeting held June 17, 1772, Mr. William 
West, Jr., was balloted for, and elected, nem. con. 
Mr. Stephen Moylan, President. 
John M. Nesbitt, Vice President. 
Elected for the ensuing year. 



( 95 ) 

All the stock that may be in the Treasurer's hands, 
on the 17th March next, to be applied towards that 
day's expense, 

Mr. Samuel Meredith proposed as an honorary 
member, by Mr. Moylan. 

Richard Bache proposed as an honorary member, 
by Mr. Nesbitt. 

Lambert Cadwalader proposed as an honorary 
member, by Mr. Barclay. 

John Murray, (by Mr. John Mitchell,) applied for 
admittance. 

Mr. John White having reported to the President 
and company met, that Mr. James Mease desired 
him, (in London) to acquaint the Society that he had 
made inquiry, what a set of dies for striking medals 
(agreeably to the rules) would cost, and found they 
could not be got under fifty or sixty pounds, — it is 
the opinion of the present company, that they ought 
to be procured, and therefore do order the Secretary 
to call upon each member of the Society for fifty 
shillings currency, and to purchase a bill for fifty 
pounds sterling, which he is immediately to remit 
to Mr. James Mease, or, in his absence, to Mr. Wm. 
Mitchell, towards the purchase of a neat and complete 
set of dies, to be forwarded here by the first opportu- 
nity. 

Philadelphia, June 20th, 1772. 

Mr. James Mease, (London.) 
Dear Sir, — 

I am directed to inform you, that the Society of the 
Friendly Sons of St. Patrick came to the following 
resolve, at their quarterly meeting, on the 17th inst. 
[T/ien follows the above resolution-l 



{ 9e ) 

On consulting with our mutual friend, Mr. Bar- 
clay, who is of opinion that you may have left Lon- 
don before this reaches you, have concluded to enclose 
the bill to Mr. Petrie, also this letter open, that in 
case you have been so good as to have purchased a 
set at your own cost, he might apply the bill to your 
credit. The enclosed note to Mr. Mitchell is only 
meant, that in case you have left Europe without the 
dies, he may get the bill and apply it to the design 
proposed. I take the liberty to give you the follow- 
ing description of the intended medal. 

[Here foUoiDs a description of the medal, for which see 
p. 22, 23,-91, 92."] 

If the dies shall cost more than the sum sent, the 
Society will cheerfully reimburse you with thanks. 
I am very respectfully, dear sir, 

Your most ob't. and humble servant, 

B. Fuller. 

Under the foregoing. 

Philadelphia, June 20th, 1772. 

Mr. William Mitchell, 
Dear Sir: 

I have the pleasure of acquainting you that the 
Society of the Friendly Sons of St. Patrick have 
intended you the honour of executing what is con- 
tained in the foregoing to Mr. Mease, in case that 
gentleman has left Europe before this reaches you, 
and has not done it. Mr. Petrie will have Mr. 
Barclay's directions to deliver the bill to either. 
I am, &c. B. Fuller. 



At a meeting of the President and Council, (at 
Duffy's Tavern,) the 3d December, 1772: 



( 9T) 

Present, 

Mr. Stephen Moylan, President. 
John M. Nesbitt, Vice President. 
William West, Thomas Barclay, 

James Mease, William Mitchell, 

Benjamin Fuller, Secretary. 

Resolved, That the Society meet at Mr. MuUan's 
Tavern, on. the 17th inst, and that notice be given 
accordingly. 

Resolved, That Mr. Mease provide claret for said 
meeting. 

Mr. William Mitchell, reported to the President 
and Council, that he had, (while in London,) re- 
ceived the fifty pounds sterling bill forwarded him, 
by the Secretary, and that he had bespoke a com- 
plete set of dies, which could not be got ready under 
two or three months. That he was informed they 
might receive injury at sea, and if they were the 
least rusted, they would be rendered useless; and 
also that in case they came safe to hand, it was more 
than probable, that a person could not be found to 
make proper use of them; for the least error in exe- 
cuting would totally spoil them; and that machinery 
to fix them for striking med^ds, would cost a consi- 
derable sum. On these considerations he had or- 
dered them to be lodged with Mr. William Moore, 
Goldsmith, in Pater Noster Row, No. 4, until the 
sentiments of the Society were taken. 

The President and Council having taken the above 
report into consideration, do submit their opinion 
thereon, to the quarterly meeting, on the 17th inst, 
which is, — That the dies do remain in London with 



{ 98 ) 

Mr. William Moore. That every new member, oii 
their admittance, do pay unto the Secretary, for the 
time being, the sum of thirty shillings, towards re- 
imbursing the present members (who have advanced 
for the payment of the dies,) the sum they have sub- 
scribed more than thirty shillings; and that after the 
advance is fully paid up, the said sum of thirty 
shillings shall be still collected from new members, 
and become part of the Society's stock, to be disposed 
of at every June meeting, as the fines are. 

That each subscribing member may write to Mr. 
William Moore for his medal, or lodge money with 
Mr. William Mitchell, who has kindly offered to 
take the trouble of writing for any number that may 
be ordered. 



At the anniversary meeting, (at Smith's Tavern,) 
the 17th March, 1774: 

Present, 22 ordinary members — 7 honorary mem- 
bers; namely, — 

The honourable Richard Penn, John Cadwalader, 
Robert Morris, Richard Bache, Lambert Cadwalader, 
Samuel Meredith and William Hamilton. 

Guests, His Honour the Governor, (John Penn,) 
&c. &c. 



At a meeting of Council, .... 7th December, 
1774: 

Present, Mr. William West, President. 
Samuel Caldwell, John M. Nesbitt, 

Thomas Barclay, George Campbell, 

William Mitchell, Benjamin Fuller. 



( 99 ) 

Ordered, That the Society meet at the City Ta- 
vern, on Saturday, the 17th inst. 

That an invitation be given to the Governor. 

That Mr. John M. Nesbitt and Mr. James Mease 
order a good plain dinner for twenty, and choose the 
liquors. 

Dr. Robert Boyd (per Thomas Barclay,) and Mr. 
Antony Wayne (per Sharp Delany,) have applied to 
be admitted members. 

The Secretary to give notice thereof to each mem- 
ber. 



At a quarterly meeting of the Society of the 
Friendly Sons of St. Patrick, held at the City Ta- 
vern, on Monday, the 18th December, 1775: 

A motion being made and seconded, that Thomas 
Batt, a member of this Society, should be expelled 
for taking an active part against the liberties of 
America, the determination was postponed till the 
next meeting, in order for a more deliberate conside- 
ration. 



At a meeting of the Council, held at J. M. Nes- 
bitt's, the 11th March, 1776: 

Present, William West, President. 
Thomas Barclay, James Mease, 

John M. Nesbitt, George Campbell, 

Samuel Caldwell. 

Ordered, That Mr. Nesbitt and Mr. Mease, speak 
for dinner at Mr. Smith's Tavern, for thirty gentle- 



( 100 ) 

men, to be on table at four o'clock, on Monday, the 
ISth inst., and that they shall choose the wines and 
other liquors for the occasion. 



At an annual meeting at Smith's Tavern, the 18th 
March, 1776: 

The question being put upon the motion made at 
last meeting, whether Captain Thomas Batt be ex- 
pelled from the Society, it was unanimously carried 
in the affirmative. 



JVofe. The State of Pennsylvania having been 
invaded, and the city of Philadelphia taken by the 
British army, under the command of General Sir 
William Howe, in September, 1777, the Society had 
no meeting till September, 1778, the minutes of the 
meetings in September and December, 1776, and in 
March and June, 1777, are unfortunately lost. 



At a quarterly meeting of the Society, at the City 
Tavern, the 17th September, 1778: 

Present, Present^ 

Benjamin Fuller, President, John Mease, 
Sharp Delany, Blair M'Clenachan, 

James Mease, John Mitchell, 

John Boyle, Samuel Caldwell, 

Henry Hill, H. M. 

Honorary members abse7it, 
John Dickinson, Richard Bache, 

Robert Morris, James Searle, 

Richard Penn, Lambert Cadwalader, 

John Cadwalader, Samuel Meredith, 

William Hamilton,. 



( 101 ) 

Absent, Absent, 

Thos. Fitzsimmons,j/?ne<i55. Thos. Barclay, Ji7ied 5s. 

J. M. Nesbitt, " 5^. George Davis, '* 5*. 

John Shee, " 5^. John Nixon, " 5^» 

Andrew Caldwell, " 5s. Tench Francis, " 5^. 

John Murray, " 5s. Stephen Moylan, 

George Henry, " 6s. Antony Wayne, 

George Campbell, " 6*. Randle Mitchell, 

William West, Jr,, " 5^. Matthew Mease, ) beyond 

George Meade, " 5s. D. H. Conyngham, J sea. 

William West, " 5s. 

Mr. Alexander Nesbitt, Mr. John Donnaldson, 
Mr. James Caldwell, and Gen. William Thompson, 
have applied by Mr. John Mitchell, to become mem- 
bers of this Society, of which the secretary is to give 
notice. 



At a quarterly meeting at George Evans', the 17th 
June, 1779, 

Thomas Barclay, Esq., was elected President, and 

George Campbell, Esq., Vice-President for the en- 
suing year. 

Agreed, that such members of this Society who are 
officers in the army, shall not be subject to fines for 
absence while in service in the field. 

Colonel Francis Johnston is proposed as a candi- 
date by General Wayne, to be balloted for at next 
meeting, of which the Secretary is to give notice. 



At a quarterly meeting at George Evans', Monday, 
December 18, 1781, 

Present, Present, 

George Campbell, Esq., Pre- Matthew Mease, 
sident, Sharp Delany, 

10 



( 102 ) 



John Mitchell, 
John Dunlap, 
George Hughes, 
Hugh Shiell, 
Jasper Moylan, 
John Cochran, 
B. M'Clenachan, 
Ephraim Blaine, 
Walter Stewart, 

Guests. 
General Howe, 



Absent, 
Antony Wayne, 
Richard Butler, 
William Irvine, 
R. Mitchell, J^^^^^j^^g^^^^ 
G. Davis, S 
John Boyle, sick, 
Jos. Wilson, out of the State. 
John Mease, fined 5s. 



William Barclay, 
Alexander Nesbitt, 
Charles Stewart, 
Stephen Moylan, 
James Mease, 
J. M. Nesbitt, 
D. H. Conyngham, 
William Constable, 
Samuel Caldwell, 

Guests. 
Major M'Pherson, 
Mr. John Lardner. 

Absent, 
George Henry, 
John Donnaldson, 
John Barclay, 
John Patton, 
John Brown, 
John Moylan, 
M. M. O'Brien, 
Francis Johnston, 
Thomas Barclay, 
William West, Jr., 
John Patterson, 
James Moylan, 
John Barry, 
James Crawford, 
John Mitchell, Jr. 
Isaac All, 

John Cochran, at camp. 
N. B. All the honorary members were absent. 
Mr. William Constable having been duly proposed, 
was unanimously elected a member of the Society. 



ne 


^5*. 


(( 


ds. 


(( 


bs. 


(( 


5s. 


<( 


5s. 


(( 


5s. 


<( 


5s. 


(( 


5s. 



Thomas Fitsimmons 




55. 


John Shoe, 




5s. 


John Nixon, 




5s. 


Benjamin Fuller, 




5s. 


Andrew Caldwell, 




5s. 


James Caldwell, 




5s. 


Tench Francis, 




5s. 


John Murray, 




5s, 


George Mease, 




5s. 



beyond 



At the anniversary meeting of the Society of the 
Friendly Sons of St. Patrick, held at George Evans', 
on Monday, 18th March, 1782, 



( 103 ) 



Present, 




Preseni, 






George Campbell, Esq. 


,Pr'd't. 


Walter Stewart, 






Thomas Fitzsimmons, 


V. P. 


Stephen Moylan, 






General Washington, 




John Dunlap, 






Andrew Caldwell, 




Benjamin Fuller, 






J. M. Nesbitt, 




Charles Stewart, 






Alexander Nesbitt, 




Ephraim Blaine, 






John Barclay, 




James Mease, 






James Caldwell, 




Matthew Mease, 






George Hughes, 




John Moylan, 






George Henry, 




John Mease, 






M. M. O'Brien, 




William Constable 


) 




James Crawford, 




General Hand, 






Sharp Delany, 




Samuel Caldwell, 






D. H. Conyngham, 




John Shee, 






Hugh Shiell, 




George Meade, 






John Mitchell, 




Jasper Moylan, 






Honorary members present. 






Governor Dickinson, 




Richard Bache, 






Robert Morris, 




Samuel Meredith, 








Henry Hill. 






Absent, 




Absent^ 






John Cadwalader, 




J. Boyle, sick. 






Lambert Cadwalader, 




Antony Wayne, 






James Searle, 




Richard Butler, 


- at camp. 


Richard Penn, 




J. Cochran, 






William Hamilton, 




W. Irvine, 






R. Mitchell, ^ 




John Nixon, Jine 


d 7s. 


Gd. 


G. Davis, \ out,of the State. 


Tench Francis, '* 


7s. 


6d. 


J. Wilson, ) 




John Murray, « 


7s. 


6d. 


Thomas Barclay,' 






B. M'Clenachan, " 


7s. 


6d. 


Wm. West, Jr., 






John Donnaldson, 


7s. 


Qd, 


J. Patterson, 






John Patton, " 


7s. 


6d. 


J. Moylan, 


> beyond sea. 


John Brown, *' 


7s. 


6d. 


J. Barry, 






Francis Johnston, 


7s. 


6d. 


J. Mitchell, Jr., 












L All, ) 


£S 





( 104 ) 



Guests, 
President Mooro, 
President Hanson, 
General Lincoln, 
General Dickenson, 
General Moultrie, 
General Steuben, 
Mr. Muhlenberg, 
Colonel Tilghraan, 
Colonel Humphreys, 



Guests, 
Major Thomas L. Moore ,> 
Major Walker, 
Major M'Pherson,. 
Captain Colefax, 
Captain Truxton, 
Mr. Carroll, 
Mr. Collins, 
Mr. Daniel Clark, 
Mr. David Hoops. 
Doctar Hagen. 

Mr. Archibald Gamble, General Edward Hand, 
General Knox, and Captain Thomas Read, were se- 
verally balloted for, and unanimously elected mem- 
bers of the society. 



At an annual meetingof the Society of the Friendly 
Sons of St. Patrick, held at the City Tavern, on Mon- 
day, the 17th March, 1783, 

Present, thirty-two ortlinary members, and these 
honorary, namely. 



Lambert Cadwalader, 
Samuel Meredith, 
Richard Bache, 

Guests, 
Colonel Moore, 
Doctor Draper, 
Oliver Pollock, Esq., 
Mr. William Hunter, 
General M'Dougall, 
General Baron Steuben, 
Yice President Ewing^ 



Henry Hill, 
Robert Morris, 
John Cadwalader, 

Guests. 
Hon. E. Boudenot, Presi 

dent of Congress, 
Honourable T, M'Kean, 

Chief Justice, 
General Lincoln, 
M. Marbois, 
M^ Livingston^, 



( 105 ) 

Absent, Absent, 

^Stephen Moylan, ^ Randle Mitchell, J out of 

Antony Wayne, 
.Richard Butler, 
Walter Stewart, 
John Cochran, 
Gen. Washington, 
Edward Hand, 



■\ 



Thomas Barclay, > the 

George Davis, J State. 
y at camp. William West, Jr.,"] 

John Patterson, I beyond 

James Moylan, { sea. 

John Barry, J 
John Boyle, sick. 



At a meeting of the Society of the Friendly Sons 
of St. Patrick, held at the City Tavern on Tuesday, 
the 17th June, 1783, 

John Maxwell Nesbitt was elected President. 
Andrew Caldwell Vice-President; and Samuel Cald- 
well Treasurer and Secretary for the ensuing year. 

Mr. Oliver Pollock, Captain John Green, and Mr. 
James Collins, were balloted for, and unanimously 
chosen members of this Society. 

Whereas, the war hath interrupted the intercourse 
with Great Britain, and thereby put it out of the 
power of the members who have been elected since 
its commencement, of providing themselves with 
medals, agreeably to the original rules of the Society: 
Therefore, 

Ordered, That the Secretary shall write to Mr. 
William West, for as many as may be wanted, by 
the members, who are requested to signify their de- 
sire of being supplied, and to pay into his hands 
three guineas and a half, besides thirty shillings en- 
trance, in order to be remitted to Mr. West, to enable 
him to comply with the order. 
10* 



( 106 ) 

And, as Mr. James Mease supplied the Society 
with his own medal to present to General Washing- 
ton upon his admission, which they are bound to re- 
place, the Secretary is directed to order one for that 

purpose. 

Philadelphia, 29th Sept., 1783. 

Captain Isaac All. 

Sir: — Enclosed you have John Green's bill of ex- 
change, at thirty days' sight, on Joshua Johnson of 
London, for four hundred and thirty-nine livres Tour- 
nois, which I request you will negotiate in the most 
advantageous way, and with the money be pleased to 
get as many medals for the St. Patrick's Society as 
will amount to this remittance, and bring them along 
with you. 

The dies were left in the care of Mr. William 
Moore, goldsmith, in Pater-Noster row, No. 4, to 
whom you will please to apply, a reasonable time be- 
fore your departure from London, that he may have 
time to prepare them. 

Your attention to this small matter will very much 
oblige the members of the Society of the Friendly 
Sons of St. Patrick, as well as. 
Sir, 

Your very humble servant, 
Samuel Caldwell. 



At a quarterly meeting of the Society, on Thurs- 
day, 17th June, 1784, at the City Tavern, 

The officers elected for the ensuing year, were 
John Maxwell Nesbitt, President. 
Andrew Caldwell, Vice-President, 
Samuel Caldwell, Secretary. 



( 107 ) 

Mr. James Campbell is proposed as a candidate by 
John Moylan. 

At a meeting of the Friendly Sons of St. Patrick, 
held at the house of Samuel Richardet on the 17th 
March, 1796, 

The following members were present: — 
General Stephen Moylan, John Dunlap, 

Thomas Fitzsimrnons, John Barclay, 

Jasper Moylan, Patrick Moore, 

James Crawford, William Bingham, 

John Leamy, Oliver Pollock, 

John Barry, John Bleakley, 

Francis West, John Moylan, 

George Hughes, Robert Rainey, 

John Caldwell, Thomas Robinson, 

Thomas L. Moore, John Brown. 

The place of President and Vice-President being 
vacant by the resignation of Mr. John Maxwell 
Nesbitt, and Mr. Jasper Moylan. The members 
proceeded to the election of a President and Vice- 
President, when 

General Stephen Moylan was unanimously elected 
President, and Thomas Fitzsimmons,Esq., was elected 
Vice-President. 



8th March, 1797, present S. Moylan, J. M. Nes- 
bitt, &c. 

It was agreed that no strangers should be intro- 
duced on the 7th inst, in order to give the members 
an opportunity of revising the rules, &c. 



1798. No strangers except Mr. Murphy of St. 
Thomas, a&ked. 



ALPHABETICAL 

LIST OF THE MEMBERS 

OF THE 

SOCIETY OF THE FRIENDLY SONS OF ST. PATRICK. 

[The pages refer to the biographical sketches.} 

All, Isaap, elected June 18, 1781, - page 59 

Barclay, John, elected June 17, 1779, - - 59 

Barclay, Thomas, (original member,) - 33 

Barclay, William, elected March 17, 1781, - 60 

Barry, John, elected June 17, 1779, - - 60 

Bait, Thomas, elected Sept. 17, 1773, - - 61 

Blaine, Ephraim, elected June 17, 1780, - 61 

Bleakly, John, elected March 17, 1794, - 61 
Bourke, William, elected September 17, 1783, 
Boyd, Robert, elected December 17, 1774, 
Boyle, Hugh, elected December 17, 1787, 

Boyle, John, (original member,) - - - 62 

Brown, John, elected December 17, 1779, - 62 
Brown, William, elected December 17, 1787, 

Butler, Richard, elected March 17, 1781, - 63 



( 109 ) 

Caldwell, Andrew, (original member, - - 38 

Caldwell, David, elected March 17, 1794, - 63 

Caldwell, James, elected December 17, 1778, 64 

Caldwell, John, elected December 17, 1787, 65 

Caldwell, Samuel, (original member,) - - 35 
Caldwell, William, elected March 17, 1786, 

Campbell, George, (original member,) - - 27 

Campbell, James, elected September 17, 1784, 65 

Carson, Samuel, (time of election unknown,) 65 

Clark, Daniel, elected December 17, 1784, - 65 

Cochran, John, elected September 17, 1781, - 65 

Collins, James, elected June 17, 1783, - 66 
Connor, John, elected March 17, 1783, 

Constable, William, elected December 18, 1781, 66 

Conyngham, D. H., elected March 17, 1775, - 66 

Crawford, James, elected June 17, 1779, - 67 

Davis, George, (original member,) - - 35 

Delany, Sharp, elected December 17, 1772, 67 

Donnaldson, John, elected December 17, 1778, 67 

Dunlap, John, elected June 17, 1779, - 6S 

Erskine, William, elected June 17, 1780, 

Fitzsimmons, Thomas, (original member,) - 30 

Francis, Tench, (original member,) - . - S7 

Francis, Turbutt, (original member,) - 38 

Fuller, Benjamin, (original member,) - - 36 

Fullerton, George, (original member,) - 35 

Gamble, Archibald, elected March 18, 1782, - 70 
Glen, Robert, elected December 17, 1772, 

Gray, Robert, elected March 17, 1781, - 72 

Greene, John, elected June 1783, - - 78 



( no ) 

Hand, Edward, elected March 18, 1782, - 70 

Hawthorn, James, (time of election unknown,) 71 

Heatly, Charles, elected March 17, 1783, - 71 

Henry, George, elected September 18, 1775, 72 
Holmes, Alexander, elected December 18, 1780, 

Holmes, Hugh, elected March 17, 1791, - 72 

Hughes, George, elected March 17, 1781, - 72 

Irvine, William, elected March 17, 1781, - 73 

Johnston, Francis, elected September 17, 1779, 73 

Knox, Henry, elected March 18, 1782, - 74 

Latimer, George, elected September 17, 1792, 74 

Lea, Thomas, elected December 17, 1785, 75 

Leamy, John, (time of election unknown,) - 75 

Logan, James, elected March 17, 1775, - 75 
Lynch, Ulysses, (original member,) 

M'Clenachan, Blair, (time of election unknown,) 76 

Meade, George, (original member,) - - 26 

Mease, James, (original member,) - - 28 

Mease, John, (original member,) - - 29 

Mease, Matthew, (original member.) - - 28 

Mitchell, John, (original member,) - - 31 
Mitchell, John, Jr., elected March 17, 1781, 

Mitchell, Randle, (original member,) - 31 

Mitchell, William, (original member,) - - 31 
Moore, Hugh, elected March 17, 1783, 

Moore, James, elected December 17, 1785, - 77 

Moore, Patrick, elected March 17, 1786, - 77 

Moylan, James, elected December 17, 1772, - 77 

Moylan, Jasper, elected June IS, 1781, - 77 

Moylan, John, " " u . . 78 



( 111 ) 

Moylan, Stephen, (original member,) - 25 

Murray, John, elected September 17, 1772, - 78 

Nesbitt, John M., (original member,) - 3^1 

Nesbitt, Alexander, elected December 17, 1778, 78 

Nichols, Francis, elected December 17, 1784, 78 

Nixon, John, (original member,) - - - 34 

O'Brien, Michael Morgan, elected June 18, 1781, 78 

Patton, John, elected June 17, 1779, - - 79 

Patterson, John, elected December 17, 1772, 79 

Pollock, Oliver, elected June 17, 1783, - 79 

Rainy, Robert, elected March 17, 1791, - 80 

Read, Thomas, elected September 17, 1782, 80 

Shee, John, (original member,) - - - 33 

Shiell, Hugh, elected March 17, 1780, - 81 
Stewart, Charles, elected June 18, 1781, 

Stewart, Walter, elected June 17, 1779, - 81 

Thompson, William, elected December 18, 1778, 82 

Washington, George, adopted December 16, 1781, 82 

Wayne, Antony, elected December 17, 1774, 83 

West, Jr., Francis, elected March 17, 1783, 84 

West, John, elected March 17, 1786, - - 84 

West, William, (original member,) - - 27 
West, Jr., William, elected June 17, 1772. 
White, John, (time of election unknown,) 
Wilson, Joseph, elected March 17, 1781. 



J' 

( 113 ) 
HONORARY MEMBERS. 



tie-ie 



Original. Henry Hill, - - - page 52 

" John Dickinson, - - - 52 

" Robert Morris, - - 53 

« William Hicks, - - - 54 

<» Richard Penn, - - 53 

<' William Hamilton, - -56 

" James Searle, - - 54 

John Cadwalader, elected December 17, 1771, 54 

Samuel Meredith, elected September 17, 1772, 56 

Richard Bache, " " " 55 

Lambert Cadwalader, " " « 56 

John Lardner, elected December 17, 1782, 57 

Richard Peters, ^' " " 1787, 58 

William Bingham, (time of election unknown,) 58 

Thomas L. Moore, " " " 59 



THE END. 



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